The Historical & Mythological Library

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Reactions are x-rays into true nature.

Look who I just discovered...

https://thenewinquiry.com/blog/rhythms-of-change-the-victorian-science-poems-of-may-kendall/

https://www.palaeopoems.com/palaeopoems/ballad-of-the-ichthyosaurus

Wow! Thanks for sharing! I loved this excerpt!

Diana Maltz places Kendall among a group of British women writers in the 1880s and 1890s who saw the subversive potential in the theory of evolution, using it justify their own “evolution” out of lives defined by fathers and husbands.

The objectification of the jellyfish as "fairest" rather than intelligent is an excellent metaphor as well.

I love this woman. I was once fascinated with Trilobites. It's amazing how she uses the landscape of nature and its subsequent creations as a method of discourse to challenge the patriarchy's historical perspective—deemed by that same patriarchy as "God's will" to restore the original viewpoint, of course.

What a treasure! Thanks for sharing.

Edit: Oh, and that second link is fantastic! She truly was a Wom[a]n who Punch[ed]!

Thanks again for sharing.

Here's another 'subversive' from a little earlier in the 1800s commentng on Victorian Britain

   ‘‘Since the Reform Act of 1832 the most important social issue in England has been the condition of the working classes, who form the vast majority of the English people. . . What is to become of these propertyless millions who own nothing and consume today what they earned yesterday?. . . The English middle classes prefer to ignore the distress of the workers and this is particularly true of the industrialists, who grow rich on the misery of the mass of wage earners.”

{ Friedrich Engels, The Condition of the Working Class in England, 1845 }

Old Man Winter, a figure deeply rooted in folklore and mythology, embodies the harsh yet majestic essence of winter. His story varies across cultures, but here's a woven narrative:

*Origins and Characteristics*

1. _Personification of Winter_: Old Man Winter is often depicted as a wise, powerful, and rugged elder, symbolizing the season's unforgiving yet beautiful nature.

2. _Physical Appearance_: He's typically illustrated with a long white beard, hair, and robes, evoking a sense of wisdom and timelessness.

*Mythological Connections*

1. _Slavic Mythology_: In some Slavic cultures, Old Man Winter is associated with Morozko, a frost spirit who brings winter and has the power to freeze.
2. _Norse Mythology_: He's linked to the god Ullr, patron of archery, hunting, and winter.

*Symbolism and Significance*

1. _Cycle of Life_: Old Man Winter represents the cyclical nature of seasons, emphasizing renewal and transformation.
2. _Resilience and Wisdom_: His age and endurance symbolize the importance of experience and adaptation.
3. _Nature's Power_: He embodies the awe-inspiring force of winter, reminding humans of their place within nature.

*Cultural Influences*

1. _Literature_: Appears in folklore tales, poems, and children's stories, teaching lessons about resilience and the changing seasons.
2. _Art_: Inspires vivid, serene winter landscapes, capturing the essence of snow-covered tranquility.

*Modern Interpretations*

1. _Environmental Awareness_: Old Man Winter serves as a reminder of climate change's impact on seasonal cycles.
2. _Symbol of Cozy Comfort_: He's also associated with the warmth and joy of winter activities, like hot chocolate and fireplace gatherings.

Old Man Winter's story is a rich tapestry of myth, symbolism, and cultural significance, inviting reflection on nature, resilience, and the passing of time.

-author unknown