Nine Muses


Elis Archaeological Collection- Hellenistic mosaic floor
depicting Apollo and the nine muses

Calliope is the eldest and most important of the nine Muses and initially identified with philosophy. She is the Muse of epic or heroic poetry. Calliope, which means "beautiful voice", is the mother of the great poets and musicians Orpheus and Linus.

Clio is the Muse of historical and heroic poetry. She is the mother of Hyacinth, who was accidentally killed by his beloved Apollo while practising throwing the discus.

Erato is the Muse of lyric poetry, particularly love and erotic poetry. Her name means "Lovely" and she is usually shown with a lyre.

Euterpe This Muse's name means "Delight" and indeed she brings delight and joy to all those who hear her sing. She was the Muse of lyric poetry and music, especially the flute, which she invented.

Melpomene is the Muse of tragedy. She is usually represented with a tragic mask, the club of Hercules or a sword.
Polyhymnia is the Muse of the sublime and sacred hymn and dance. She is usually represented as a serious looking woman, dressed in a long cloak.

Terpsichore is the Muse of dancing and the dramatic chorus, and later of lyric poetry. Hence the word terpsichorean, pertaining to dance. She is the mother of the Sirens.

Thalia is the Muse of comedy, merry and idyllic poetry. She is usually represented holding a comic mask.

Urania is the Greek Muse of astronomy, astrology and Universal love. She is represented with a globe in her left hand and a peg in her right hand.

Check that you understand what these words mean in this document
Delight: great pleasure.
Pertaining: connected with a particular subject.