Muse

In Greek mythology, one of the nine inspiring deities of the creative arts: Clio, Euterpe, Thalia, Melpomene, Terpsichore, Erato, Polyhymnia, Urania, and Calliope; daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, goddess of memory. Reputedly born in Pieria, at the foot of Mount Olympus, they were originally only three in number, but became nine from the time of Hesiod.

Attributes The assignment of a sphere of literature or science to each Muse, with their respective symbols, dates from the late Roman period.

Clio's area of influence is history, and she is depicted with an open scroll. Euterpe is the Muse of lyric poetry, and carries a flute. Thalia, the inspiration of comedy and idyllic poetry, bears a comic mask, shepherd's staff, or ivy wreath. Melpomene's literary governance is tragedy, indicated by a tragic mask, staff of Heracles, or sword. Terpsichore attends to choral dance and song, with lyre and plectrum, while Erato evokes erotic poetry and mime, with her lyre. Represented with a pensive attitude, Polyhymnia guides sacred song. Urania, the Muse of astronomy, points her staff to a globe; and Calliope, patroness of epic poetry, holds a tablet and stylus.

Worship Their cult was introduced from Thrace, first into Pieria, and spread to Parnassus and Helicon. Sacrificial offerings included honey and libations of water or milk.

MUSE

In computing, type of MUD.