THE FURIES Meaning and
Definition
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The Furies, also known as the Erinyes, are mythical figures in Greek mythology symbolizing divine vengeance. They are three female goddesses tasked with punishing individuals who commit grave crimes, particularly matricide and patricide, as well as perjury, betrayal against family members, and breaches of hospitality. The Furies are typically depicted as terrifying and vengeful creatures, relentless in their pursuit of justice.
These goddesses have distinctive characteristics. They have serpents entwined in their hair, bloodshot eyes, pale and deathly complexion, and bat-like wings that enable them to swiftly move around their targets. Armed with whips and torches, they haunt the individuals they seek to punish, driving them to madness or hounding them until they face retribution for their actions. The Furies also play a significant role in the Greek tragedy "The Eumenides" by Aeschylus.
Their origins trace back to ancient Greek mythology, where they were born from the blood of Uranus, the primordial sky god, when he was castrated by his son Cronus. Thus, the Furies are considered the guardians of the natural order and cosmic justice. Although feared for their destructive power, the Furies were also invoked in certain rituals and prayers for their ability to purify souls and bring about catharsis.
In modern contexts, the term "the Furies" may be employed metaphorically to describe intense anger or wrath. It can also refer to a group of individuals seeking vengeance or retribution against perceived injustices.
Common Misspellings for THE FURIES
- rhe furies
- fhe furies
- ghe furies
- yhe furies
- 6he furies
- 5he furies
- tge furies
- tbe furies
- tne furies
- tje furies
- tue furies
- tye furies
- thw furies
- ths furies
- thd furies
- thr furies
- th4 furies
- th3 furies
- the duries
- the curies
Etymology of THE FURIES
The word "Furies" is derived from the ancient Greek term "Erinyes", also spelled as "Eumenides". In Greek mythology, the Furies were a trio of female goddesses who represented vengeance and justice. They were believed to pursue and punish individuals who had committed heinous crimes, particularly acts of murder, patricide, and matricide.
The Greek term "Erinyes" originates from the verb "erōs", which means "to pursue" or "to persecute". This highlights their role as relentless pursuers and enforcers of moral law.
In Roman mythology, the Furies are known as "Furiae" or "Dirae". The Latin term "Furiae" is believed to come from the verb "fervere", meaning "to boil" or "to seethe", signifying their fiery and wrathful nature.
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