The goddess who deeply admired Endymion was Selene, the ancient Greek moon-goddess. Her profound affection for the handsome mortal Endymion is a central element of their renowned mythological narrative.
Selene's Admiration for Endymion
Selene, often depicted driving her moon chariot across the night sky, became enamored with Endymion, a mortal known for his exceptional beauty. Their story portrays Selene's intense love and admiration, leading her to desire his eternal presence. This deep infatuation is a hallmark of their myth.
The core figures in this mythological account include:
| Figure | Role | Key Connection to the Myth |
|---|---|---|
| Selene | Moon-goddess | Fell passionately in love with Endymion |
| Endymion | Handsome mortal | Object of Selene's profound admiration and love |
Historical and Mythological Context
The tale of Selene and Endymion is one of the enduring love stories from Greek mythology. It explores themes of divine love for mortals, eternal youth, and immortality. The story's antiquity is significant, with references and allusions to it dating back to ancient Greek poets such as Sappho, indicating its widespread recognition and cultural importance long ago. Various versions of the myth exist, often differing on the specifics of Endymion's fate (e.g., eternal sleep, immortality), but they consistently emphasize Selene's deep admiration and love for him.
For further exploration of Endymion and related mythological figures, detailed information can be found in classical scholarly resources. For instance, the Oxford Classical Dictionary offers comprehensive insights into various aspects of classical mythology.
