Sorcery in Mythology and History
Ancient Origins and Connections
Sorcery, the practice of magical arts, has been intertwined with human culture for millennia. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was linked to idolatry and often fostered by it. Additionally, the use or administration of drugs was considered a form of sorcery, further blurring the lines between the magical and the medicinal.
Mythological Figures Associated with Sorcery
In Greek mythology, sorcery was associated with notable figures such as:
- Circe: A powerful enchantress who transformed Odysseus' companions into swine
- Medusa: A Gorgon with venomous snakes for hair, whose gaze could turn humans to stone
- Hecate: A goddess of witchcraft and the underworld, often depicted as a triple-headed goddess
Translation of "Sorcery" in Greek
The Greek word for "sorcery" is goēteia, which translates to "charm" or "enchantment." It carries negative connotations, often associated with black magic and evil practices.
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