The Story of Euterpe
Euterpe was the Muse of music, song and lyric poetry, one of the nine daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne. Her name means giver of delight, or the one who pleases well. She inspired the melodies and songs that brought people joy.
Euterpe was usually shown playing the aulos, a double flute, and some later writers even said she invented it. In some accounts she was the mother of Rhesus, a Thracian king who fought for Troy, though other tellings give him a different Muse as his mother. In one story, the Sirens challenged the Muses to a singing contest, and after the Muses won, they plucked out the Sirens' feathers to make crowns for themselves.
Euterpe was honored with her sisters wherever the Muses were worshipped, especially at Mount Helicon and Pieria. Musicians and poets called on her for inspiration. To the Greeks, music was a gift of the gods, and Euterpe stood for the simple pleasure it gave.
Famous Myths About Euterpe
The Sirens' Challenge
The Sirens once challenged the Muses to a singing contest. The Muses, including Euterpe, won easily, and they plucked out the Sirens' feathers to make crowns for themselves.
Euterpe's Family Tree
Parents of Euterpe
Partners of Euterpe
Children of Euterpe
Frequently Asked Questions About Euterpe
Who is Euterpe in Greek mythology?
Euterpe is the Muse of music, song and lyric poetry. Her name means giver of delight.
Who are Euterpe's parents?
Like all the Muses, Euterpe is a daughter of Zeus and Mnemosyne, the Titan goddess of memory.
What are Euterpe's symbols?
Euterpe is usually shown holding the aulos, a double flute, and sometimes wearing a laurel wreath.
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