Hypnos

Museo de Almedinilla - Hypnos

Hypnos Thanatos BM Vase D56 full

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Dioniso scopre arianna, da casa dei capitelli colorati a pompei, 9278 (cropped)

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Tête d' Hypnos

Euphronios krater side A MET L.2006.10

Hypnos is the personification of sleep in Greek mythology. He is a primordial deity, one of the first beings to exist in the cosmos, and is a son of Nyx (Night) and Erebus (Darkness), making him one of the powerful and enigmatic deities that embody fundamental aspects of the world. Hypnos' Roman counterpart is Somnus, from which the word "somnolence" derives, indicating a state of drowsiness or sleepiness.

Mythology

Hypnos resides in a dimly lit, dreamy realm where the sun never reaches, often depicted as a cave or a place at the edges of the world, including the island of Lemnos (according to some myths), which is also associated with his brother Thanatos, the personification of death. This close association between sleep and death reflects the ancient Greeks' views on the two states being closely related, with death often referred to as the "eternal sleep."

Hypnos is often depicted as a young man with wings attached to his temples or shoulders, symbolizing the swift onset of sleep. He is also frequently shown holding a horn or a poppy stem, elements representing the bringing of sleep or the inducing of dreams.

Family

Hypnos' family ties place him within the complex web of Greek mythological beings. His mother, Nyx, is a figure of such power that even Zeus, the king of the gods, is wary of her. His twin brother, Thanatos, represents a peaceful death. Hypnos also has numerous children, the Oneiroi, who are spirits (or gods) of dreams. The most famous of these is Morpheus, who shapes and personifies dreams.

Influence on Culture

The influence of Hypnos extends beyond ancient myths into various aspects of culture and language. The term "hypnosis" is derived from his name, referring to a trance-like state that resembles sleep. In art and literature, Hypnos has been a subject of fascination, often portrayed as a benevolent figure bringing rest and relief from the troubles of the world, but also as a powerful deity who can control the minds and actions of gods and mortals alike.

Worship and Cult

Unlike many other deities in Greek mythology, there is little evidence of a widespread cult or dedicated temples for the worship of Hypnos. This could be due to the personal and ubiquitous nature of sleep, a domain over which he presided. However, his presence was acknowledged in daily life, and he was invoked for a good night's sleep or for pleasant dreams.

Legacy

Hypnos' legacy is seen in the way sleep and dreams continue to be associated with the divine or mystical realms. The exploration of dreams and their meanings, a practice that dates back to ancient civilizations, reflects the enduring fascination with Hypnos' domain. In modern psychology, the study of sleep and dreams pays homage to the ancient deity, acknowledging the profound impact of sleep on human health and consciousness.