The Muses of Music: Erato, Euterpe, and Terpsichore
Have you felt inspired recently? You may need to thank a muse!
In ancient Greek mythology, there were nine muses who were the goddesses of poetry, song, music and dance, and they presided over mortal artists. The word ‘muse’ comes from the ancient Greek Mouseion (Μουσεῖον), which is a shrine dedicated to the muses. So a ‘museum’ is literally a place where you come to thank, and be inspired by, the muses!
Here are the names of the nine and the fields in which they lent inspiration to humans:
Calliope — Epic poetry and eloquence
Clio — History
Erato — Love poetry and lyric poetry
Euterpe — Music and lyric poetry
Melpomene — Tragedy
Polyhymnia — Sacred hymns and religious poetry
Terpsichore — Dance and choral song
Thalia — Comedy and pastoral poetry
Urania — Astronomy
The muses inspired some of the greatest poets in ancient Greek history, such as Homer, Ovid, and Hesiod by whispering into their ears and bestowing them with the divine gift of songs and epic poetry. The muses would also perform for the Olympian gods, where they were led by Apollo and taught dance by Dionysus. While there were nine muses in total, each sister had a unique domain over which she presided. Let’s meet the three muses who inspired ancient song and dance!
Erato
Erato was the muse of love songs and romantic poetry, who inspired musicians to write about the dramatic highs and lows of love in their songs. Her name stems from the ancient Greek word for love: ἔρως (pronounced eros). As Erato’s divine inspiration triggers romantic longing, she is frequently associated in ancient art and literature with the same symbols as the goddess Aphrodite, such as lyres, and golden arrows. Aphrodite’s son is named Eros, and he later evolved into the figure now known as Cupid.
Erato is also described as bewitching, carrying the same charge and grace as Aphrodite. Together, Erato and Aphrodite would inspire some of the greatest and most tumultuous love stories in Greek myth, such as Jason and Medea as told in ‘Jason and the Golden Fleece’.
Euterpe
Euterpe is associated with the theme of music and lyrical poetry. While her sister and fellow muse, Erato, focuses on love and heartbreak, Euterpe is associated with delightfulness and pleasure. Euterpe is the muse of joyful, harmonious, and celebratory music.
In Greek stories, she is depicted as the muse who inspires poets and musicians while they write their lyrics. She would whisper into their ears, telling them the best way to express their emotions and experiences through their songs and poetry. In visual representations, she is commonly depicted holding or playing a flute.
Terpsichore
Terpsichore is the muse of dance and choral music. She worked together with her sister and muse of lyrics, Euterpe, to create musical festivities and celebrations.
Terpsichore’s name stems from the ancient Greek words for dance and delight, translating to “delight in dancing.” She was also the muse of the chorus, who were the spectators of Greek plays that would sing, dance, and comment on the actions of the characters in tragedies.
Terpsichore is typically represented holding a lyre, highlighting her close relationship with the god Apollo.
Which of these musical muses is your favourite? Let us know by leaving a comment below!
Until next time,
λεῖος πλόος!
Written by Sarah McGregor
Volunteer and Intern
Hellenic Museum
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