The Story of Comus
Comus was the god of revelry and nighttime merrymaking, a follower of Dionysus. He is a late figure in Greek myth, and some later writers called him a son of Dionysus. His name comes from the komos, the noisy band of revelers that roamed the streets after a feast.
The fullest picture of him comes from Philostratus, who described a painting of Comus standing drowsily at the doors of a wedding chamber. He wore a crown of roses, held a torch that drooped in his hand, and seemed half asleep from wine and celebration. The scene was filled with music, dancing and laughter.
The Greeks did not worship Comus at any great temple, but his spirit was everywhere their parties spilled outdoors at night. The word comedy is thought to come from komos and the Greek word for song. Centuries later the English poet John Milton made Comus the villain of a famous masque.
Comus's Family Tree
Parents of Comus
Partners of Comus
Children of Comus
Frequently Asked Questions About Comus
Who is Comus in Greek mythology?
Comus is the god of revelry, festivity and nighttime merrymaking, and a follower of Dionysus.
Who are Comus's parents?
Comus is a late figure in Greek myth, and some later writers called him a son of Dionysus.
Is the word comedy related to Comus?
Yes. Comedy comes from the Greek komos, the noisy revel that Comus personifies, combined with the word for song.
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