The Story of Dione
Dione was an ancient goddess whose name is a feminine form of the name Zeus. Ancient writers disagree about her family. Some make her a Titan daughter of Uranus and Gaia, while Hesiod lists her among the Oceanids, the daughters of Oceanus and Tethys.
In Homer's Iliad, Dione is the mother of Aphrodite by Zeus. When Aphrodite is wounded in the hand by the Greek hero Diomedes during the Trojan War, she flees to Olympus in tears. Dione comforts her, reminds her that many gods have suffered at the hands of mortals, and wipes away the ichor to heal the wound.
Dione was worshipped beside Zeus at Dodona in northwestern Greece, the oldest oracle in the land. There priests and priestesses listened to the rustling of a sacred oak tree to learn the will of the gods. At Dodona, Dione was honored as Zeus's partner, a sign of how old and important her worship was.
Famous Myths About Dione
Comforting Aphrodite
In the Iliad, Aphrodite is wounded in the hand by the Greek hero Diomedes and flees to Olympus in tears. Her mother Dione comforts her, reminding her that many gods have suffered at mortal hands, and heals the wound.
Where to See Dione in Greece
Dione's Family Tree
Partners of Dione
Children of Dione
Frequently Asked Questions About Dione
Who is Dione in Greek mythology?
Dione is a goddess of oracles and prophecy who was worshiped alongside Zeus at his oracle of Dodona.
Is Dione the mother of Aphrodite?
In Homer's Iliad, Dione is the mother of Aphrodite by Zeus, and she comforts her daughter when Aphrodite is wounded at Troy.
Who are Dione's parents?
Ancient sources disagree. Some make her a Titan daughter of Uranus and Gaia, while Hesiod names her as an Oceanid, a daughter of Oceanus and Tethys.
Explore More Titans of Greek Mythology
