The Story of Pothos
Pothos was the god of longing, especially the yearning for someone who is absent. He was one of the Erotes, the winged gods of love, and a constant companion of Aphrodite. He is often shown together with his brothers Eros and Himeros.
No great adventures are told of Pothos, because he stood for a feeling rather than a deed. The philosopher Plato explained the difference between the brothers: himeros is desire for someone who is present, while pothos is the ache for someone who is far away. Greek poets used his name when they wrote of missing a lover, a friend or a home they had lost.
The sculptor Scopas carved a famous statue of Pothos for the island of Samothrace and another, together with Eros and Himeros, for the temple of Aphrodite at Megara. In art he appears as a dreamy winged youth, often with a goose or a vine nearby. For the Greeks he gave a name to one of the most familiar human feelings, the longing that distance brings.
Pothos's Family Tree
Parents of Pothos
Partners of Pothos
Children of Pothos
Frequently Asked Questions About Pothos
Who is Pothos in Greek mythology?
Pothos is the god of longing and yearning for someone who is absent, and one of the Erotes, the winged gods of love.
Who are Pothos's companions?
Pothos is a companion of Aphrodite, and he is often shown with his brothers Eros and Himeros.
How is Pothos different from Himeros?
Himeros stands for desire for someone who is present, while Pothos is the longing for someone who is far away.
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