Venus (mythology)

Roman Venus MBA Lyon L83

Pompeii - Casa di Marte e Venere - MAN

Roman - Venus - Walters 54966

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The Forum of Caesar (built near the Forum Romanum in Rome in 46 BC) and the Temple of Venus Genetrix, Imperial Forums, Rome (21101482544)

Dea Barberini Massimo

Venus is a central figure in Roman mythology, embodying love, beauty, desire, sex, fertility, prosperity, and victory. In Roman religion, she was considered the ancestor of the Roman people through her son, Aeneas, who survived the fall of Troy and fled to Italy. Julius Caesar claimed her as his ancestor. Venus has been a symbol of femininity and has had a profound influence on Western art, literature, and culture.

Mythology and Worship

Venus was adapted from her Greek counterpart, Aphrodite, but acquired distinct characteristics in Roman mythology. Initially, Venus was associated with gardens and vineyards, not just love and beauty. Over time, her attributes expanded, making her a versatile and widely venerated deity.

The most famous myth involving Venus is her role in the cause of the Trojan War. According to the myth, Venus, Juno, and Minerva were invited to the wedding of Peleus and Thetis. Eris, the goddess of discord, upset at not being invited, threw a golden apple inscribed "To the fairest" among the goddesses. Paris of Troy was chosen to decide the fairest, and Venus promised him the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen of Sparta, leading to the Trojan War.

Venus' love affairs are numerous, including gods like Mars (the god of war) and mortals such as Adonis. These relationships often highlight her dual nature as a goddess of both marital fidelity and romantic infidelity.

Worship

Venus was worshipped in numerous festivals and had many temples dedicated to her across the Roman Empire. The Veneralia was celebrated on April 1st, dedicated to Venus Verticordia, who protected against vice. Another important festival was the Vinalia Urbana on April 23, when wine was prepared to be stored, partly in honor of Venus.

Symbols and Representations

Venus is often depicted in art and literature surrounded by symbols of her divinity such as the dove, apple, scallop shell, and mirror. The Venus de Milo and Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" are among the most famous artistic representations of the goddess.

Legacy

Venus' legacy extends beyond mythology into the realms of astronomy and literature. The planet Venus is named after her, reflecting her association with brightness and beauty. In literature, Venus has been a subject of works by authors ranging from Ovid in his "Metamorphoses" to Shakespeare in his poem "Venus and Adonis."

See Also

• Aphrodite
• Roman mythology
• Trojan War
• Aeneas