Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Classical Age Sportswomen II




Artemis, the Greek Goddess referred to in the last post, releaser of ravaging wild boars and protector of the virginity of nymphs, was the sister of Apollo and daughter of Zeus. She is known as the virgin Huntress and goddess of wildlife and patroness of hunters. She is alternately designated as Goddess of the Moon and protector of all wild creatures.
Artemis is often depicted with a bow and quiver. She would loose an arrow without notice in the direction of anyone who threatened her chastity or that of her nymph entourage.
I have known a bird dog and a waterfowl dog named Artemis...so monikered by Classics loving masters who wanted something other than the tired and cliche hunting dog names like " gunner" or "hunter."
When a hunter takes to the field or forest or marsh in search of game...and there is a full moon coinciding....said hunter should make an offering to Artemis. Around my Club this would amount to some whiskey thrown in the fire to waft toward Mount Olympus and appease this fickle Sportswoman.
This Wednesday is the Opening Day of Dove Season and many of my buddies in the field will be cursing or praising Artemis when they miss a crossing shot or make a good one. See you in the Field.


6 comments:

K.S.Anthony said...

DIANA! CROWNED WITH CRESCENT MOON! LOOK FAVORABLY UPON OUR HUNT!

Great post.

James said...

Good luck to you.

JMW said...

My hubby is taking the day off tomorrow to hit the field. Best of luck to all of you dove hunters! Alas, my athletic adventures would not have inspired such sculptures as these ladies here. Perhaps I could bronze my field hockey stick?

Laguna Beach Fogey said...

Philostratus the Elder, Imagines 1. 28 (trans. Fairbanks) (Greek Rhetorician C. 3rd A.D.):

"[From a description of a painting depicting hunters]: Hunters as they advance will hymn Artemis Agrotera (Goddess of the Hunt); for yonder is a temple to her, and a statue worn smooth with age, and heads of boars and bears; and wild animals sacred to her graze there, fawns and wolves and hares, all tame and without fear of man. After a prayer the hunters continue the hunt."

Keith said...

Great post. I loved it. I hope this finds you doing well. I've had a rough week. I got laid off on Tuesday. Now I've got to try to find a job in such a bad economy. Wish me luck. Thanks. Take care. Have a great upcoming weekend.

Editor said...

I could uae Artemis, atalanta and you to take care of the damn hogs on our place.
Thanks for reading.
Rex