In the Homeric Hymn to Aphrodite, the mortal man who became Aphrodite's lover was Anchises.
The Identity of Aphrodite's Beloved in the Hymn
The narrative of the Homeric Hymn to Aphrodite centers around the goddess of love, Aphrodite, falling in love with a mortal man. This individual is explicitly named and described within the hymn. Aphrodite encountered him in a pastoral setting that underscored his earthly, yet remarkably striking, presence.
The hymn describes Anchises as herding cattle on the "steep peaks of Mount Ida," a location renowned for its abundant springs. Upon seeing him, Aphrodite, often called the "lover of smiles," was immediately captivated. His appearance was so striking that the hymn states, "To look at him and the way he was shaped was like looking at the immortals." This powerful visual impression led Aphrodite to instantly fall in love with him.
Who Was Anchises? A Brief Profile
Anchises was a significant figure in Greek mythology, primarily known through his relationship with Aphrodite and his role as the father of the Trojan hero Aeneas.
- Mortal Nature: Despite his god-like appearance, Anchises was a mortal man, distinguishing him from Aphrodite and the Olympian deities. This union between a goddess and a mortal was a central theme of the hymn.
- Location of Encounter: Aphrodite found him diligently performing his duties, tending to his cattle on Mount Ida. This setting highlights the contrast between the divine realm and the mortal world.
- Striking Appearance: The hymn emphasizes his extraordinary beauty, suggesting a physique and countenance so perfect they rivaled those of the gods themselves. It was this unparalleled handsomeness that drew the goddess to him.
- Divine Infatuation: Aphrodite's immediate and intense love for Anchises showcases her vulnerability to passion, even for a mortal, fulfilling the prophecy that she too would experience what she so often inflicted upon others.
Key Figures in the Homeric Hymn to Aphrodite
For clarity, here's a table summarizing the main characters mentioned in the context of Aphrodite's love story:
| Key Figure | Role in the Hymn | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Aphrodite | Goddess of Love and Beauty | Falls deeply in love with Anchises, experiencing mortal-like desire. |
| Anchises | Mortal Lover of Aphrodite | Herds cattle on Mount Ida; possesses remarkable, immortal-like beauty. |
| Mount Ida | Primary Setting | The mountainous region where Aphrodite encounters and seduces Anchises. |
The Significance of Their Union
The love affair between Aphrodite and Anchises was not merely a romantic interlude; it had profound implications for later mythology. Their union resulted in the birth of Aeneas, a prominent hero who would eventually lead the Trojan survivors to Italy, becoming the legendary ancestor of the Roman people. This divine-mortal coupling underscored themes of fate, divine intervention in human affairs, and the origins of heroic lineages.
You can learn more about the Homeric Hymns and their significance in ancient Greek literature.
