Featured
The Love of Nymphs and Satyrs
Embodiment’s Embracing Nature
The relationship between satyrs and nymphs is a common depiction in both art and literature. Their love, although often solely described as being lustful pursuits, is actually a compelling symbol of the beauty and passion within the sexual forces of nature.
Satyrs
In Greek mythology, Satyrs are forest dwelling creatures recognized for their hybrid appearance and association with nature, music, revelry and fertility. Although some believe they are the offspring of the god Hermes or Pan, the god of shepherds, hunters and forests who possesses the same therianthrope appearance, others believe these creatures are born from the very essence of nature itself.
As woodland spirits who often engage in acts of revelry by drinking wine, dancing and playing musical instruments, they are companions to the god of wine and fertility, Dionysus. Their relation to Dionysus and love for nature lead them to be revered for their connection to the natural world, however their appearance and association with primal animal instincts causes them to also be feared.
With the torso of a man and hindquarters, legs and horns of a goat, Satyrs are believed to embody the untamed aspects of nature.
They are sensual creatures, free from the limitations of social norms, so they are often described as wild and uncivilized. However, on an archetypal level, Satyrs can be viewed as important figures who possess a knowledge and connection to nature that has been long lost and deprecated.
Their therianthrope appearance as both man and beast overall represents their connection to both human nature and animal instincts, perfectly embodying the duality of nature itself.
Nymphs
Nymphs, like Satyrs, are mythical beings associated with nature. The term nymph is a broad term used to refer to a variety feminine embodiments of nature.
Oreads are nymphs that inhabit mountains and caves, Dryads are nymphs that lurk in the trees, and Naiads are nymphs that live in rivers and other bodies of water. Each are a symbol that aims to highlight the beauty of both physical nature and human nature.
As figures who live in nature, nymphs are known for protecting the natural environment. Nymphs are interconnected with the land in which they reside in. Many of their mystical properties are linked to the land-form in which they are attributed to. Nymphs protective properties and connection to nature, reminds us to reevaluate our relationship and identification with the earth as it is important and beneficial to the self, psyche and society.
As figures who highlight the beauty of human nature, nymphs are a symbol that represent the importance of embracing feminine sexuality. Like Satyrs, nymphs are figures free from societal restraints, making them optimal figures to represent female autonomy. By accepting one’s own sexuality, one also embraces and engages in youthfulness, playfulness and divinity.
The Love of Nymphs and Satyrs
Nymphs and Satyrs have a lot in common as figures associated with nature and human instinct. Their commonalities have led them to be considered as male and female counterparts, as well as often being depicted together in art and antiquities.
The pairing of nymphs and satyrs symbolize a couple built on shared interests and values. In this case, they share an interest in music and dance, as well as a mutual understanding and devotion to the natural world. This pairing engages in rituals that offers both their relation and the earth abundance and fertility.
by Johan van Haensbergen
“Dear to nightly frolic of Nymph and Satyr, Yield a mossy bed for brown and weary limbs of the shepherds
-Sappho, The Garden of Nymphs
As we near the celebration of Valentine’s Day, let us aim to embody these figures as they encourage us to rekindle with the natural environment and accept our sexual nature.
As we rekindle with the natural environment, we support both our physical and mental health. As we learn to accept our sexual nature and that of others, we become more understanding of the overall human experience. By doing so, we enhance our ability to relate and connect with others.
Overall, a rekindled connection to the earth and understanding of human instinct and sexuality will allow us to have a more loving relationship with ourselves, others and our environment.
