In Greek mythology, Psalacantha (Ancient Greek: Ψαλάκανθα) was a nymph of the island Icaria, who later got turned into a plant by the god Dionysus.
Mythology
According to Ptolemy Hephaestion, Psalacantha fell in love with
Dionysus and promised to help him win the love of
Ariadne on condition that he satisfy her own desires as well. Dionysus refused and Psalacantha went on to advise Ariadne against him, whereupon the god became enraged and changed Psalacantha into a plant known as
psalakanthos. Later, he repented and decided to commemorate Psalacantha by having the plant worked into Ariadne's wreath, the one that was changed into the constellation
Corona Borealis.
[Ptolemy Hephaestion, New History, 5 in Photius, Myrobiblion, 190][Ptolemy Hephaestion, New History Book 5 (summary from Photius, Myriobiblon 190) (trans. Pearse) (Greek mythographer C1st to C2nd A.D.) :
]
"As for the psalakanthos, it's an Egyptian plant which gains health and victory when used to decorate horses. It is said, on the other hand, that Psalakantha (Psalacantha) was a Nymphe of the isle of Ikaros (Icaria) who, captured by Dionysos, helped him to obtain Ariane (Ariadne) on the condition that he should also belong to her, and Dionysos refused; Psalakantha took herself to Ariane and the irritated god turned her into a plany; then, feeling remorse, he wanted to honour this plant by placing it in the crown of Ariane, who took her place among the celestial constellations. As for the plant, some say it resembles the armoise, others the melilot."
History
The plant was used in Ancient Greece to honour the god
Dionysus during festivals, along with the customary wine and grapes.
See also
-
Carya of Laconia
-
Clytie
-
Crocus
-
Myia
External links
