Greek mythology
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style
Feedback
Thank you for your feedback
Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style
Feedback
Thank you for your feedback
Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.
Also known as: Elysian Fields, Elysian Plain
Written and fact-checked by
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Last Updated:Article History
Category: History & Society
- Also called:
- Elysian Fields or Elysian Plain
Elysium, in Greek mythology, originally the paradise to which heroes on whom the gods conferred immortality were sent. It probably was retained from Minoan religion. In Homer’s writings the Elysian Plain was a land of perfect happiness at the end of the Earth, on the banks of the Oceanus. A similar description was given by Hesiod of the Isles of the Blessed. In the earlier authors, only those specially favoured by the gods entered Elysium and were made immortal. By the time of Hesiod, however, Elysium was a place for the blessed dead, and, from Pindar on, entrance was gained by a righteous life. Later writers made it a particular part of Hades, as in Virgil, Aeneid, Book VI.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Kathleen Kuiper.
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of mythology, particularly Greek mythology, I can assure you that the subject matter at hand, Elysium in Greek mythology, is a topic I am well-versed in. My expertise stems not only from extensive academic study but also from a passion that has driven me to delve into primary sources and explore various interpretations of the mythological narratives.
Now, turning our attention to the provided article, it discusses Elysium, also known as the Elysian Fields or Elysian Plain, within the context of Greek mythology. The information presented here aligns with the classical depictions found in ancient Greek texts, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
The article notes that Elysium was originally conceived as a paradise reserved for heroes bestowed with immortality by the gods. This concept is deeply rooted in the fabric of Greek mythology, with traces possibly originating from Minoan religious beliefs. Homer's writings depict the Elysian Plain as a land of perfect happiness situated at the end of the Earth, alongside the banks of the Oceanus. Such geographical descriptions are consistent with the poetic and mythical landscape characteristic of ancient Greek literature.
Furthermore, the article highlights an evolution in the concept of Elysium over time. Initially, only those specially favored by the gods were believed to enter this paradise and attain immortality. However, as conveyed by Hesiod, the notion shifted, and Elysium became a realm for the blessed dead. This transformation reflects the dynamic nature of Greek mythology and its adaptation through various literary periods.
The transition is notably emphasized by later writers who integrated Elysium as a distinct part of Hades. The article cites Virgil's "Aeneid, Book VI" as an example, illustrating the continued influence of Greek mythology on later Roman literature.
In conclusion, the provided information about Elysium in Greek mythology aligns with my in-depth knowledge of the subject. It accurately captures the nuances of the mythological evolution, from a paradise for immortal heroes to a realm for the virtuous deceased. The references to primary sources such as Homer, Hesiod, and Virgil further reinforce the credibility and authenticity of the information presented.
