Nyx

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BnF MS Gr139 folio 419 verso - detail - Nyx

Arte romana, statuetta di nyx o selene, I secolo ac

Nyx is a figure from Greek mythology, representing the goddess or personification of the night. A shadowy figure, Nyx stood at or near the beginning of creation and was one of the first entities to emerge from the primordial chaos. Her origins are found in the oldest strata of Greek mythology, such as the works attributed to the legendary poet Hesiod, making her one of the most ancient and powerful deities.

Mythology

According to Hesiod's Theogony, Nyx is born of Chaos, making her one of the first beings to exist in the universe. She is depicted as a figure of great beauty and power, enveloping the world in darkness with her arrival each night. Nyx resides in a shadowy realm, often described as a cave or a place at the edge of the cosmos, where she brings forth the day and night in a cycle that predates the Olympian gods.

Nyx is also notable for her progeny, having birthed numerous other deities and entities, often by herself. Among her children are Hypnos (Sleep), Thanatos (Death), the Moirai (Fates), and Nemesis, among others. These offspring often embody various aspects of the night or darker elements of human existence, further emphasizing Nyx's comprehensive influence over the world.

Cult and Worship

Unlike many other deities of the Greek pantheon, there is little evidence to suggest that Nyx was widely worshipped or had a significant cult following. Her presence in mythology, however, underscores the ancients' understanding and reverence for the night and the mysteries it held. Nyx's role in mythology is more often as a figure of awe and respect rather than an actively worshipped deity.

In Literature and Art

Nyx has been a subject of interest in both ancient and modern literature and art. In ancient Greek texts, she is often mentioned in passing, revered for her power and beauty. In visual representations, Nyx is sometimes depicted as a winged goddess or as riding in a chariot, trailing stars and bringing the night. In modern times, Nyx has appeared in various forms of media, including books, video games, and artwork, often drawing on her mysterious and powerful nature.

Symbolism and Interpretation

Nyx represents not only the physical phenomenon of night but also symbolizes the mysteries and uncertainties associated with darkness. She embodies the dual nature of night: its danger and its beauty, its capacity to bring rest and fear. As a primordial deity, Nyx also symbolizes the chaotic and untamed forces that existed before the cosmos was ordered.

Legacy

The legacy of Nyx in Greek mythology is profound, influencing not only ancient religious and cultural practices but also modern interpretations of Greek myths. Her existence before the Olympian gods highlights the complexity of Greek cosmogony and the rich tapestry of characters and stories that form Greek mythology.