Quick Links
Home
Celtic Mythology
Greek Mythology
Roman Mythology
The Bibliography

Explore mythology and art with information about the classic stories of heroes and gods...from the myths of ancient Greece and Rome, to the legends of the Celts. Mythography presents resources and reference materials about mythology - including recommended books, and lexicons that explain Greek, Roman, and Celtic terms.

Gardner's Art Through the Ages

This book is the classic reference for the study of art. It features a history of artists and their works, as well as lucid and engaging descriptions of the styles and periods of art history. Highly recommended for both students and scholars.

Aphrodite in Art
Aphrodite in Myth
Art Themes

home | greek | gods | free spirits | page 2 | nymphs | notable nymphs | Minthe



Minthe in Greek Mythology
Minthe was a type of nymph in Greek mythology. Some ancient sources specifically classify Minthe as a Naiad or water nymph. She was associated in legend with the plant that is said to be named in honor of her myth, and this is the familiar aromatic mint plant. So let us now learn more about how the nymph Minthe was transformed into mint.

According to the story, Minthe was a beautiful water nymph who attracted the attention of Hades. Hades was the stern ruler of the Greek Underworld and the husband of the goddess Persephone. It seems, however, that even Persephone's obvious charms could not keep the attention of Hades at all times. The Underworld god therefore engaged in an illicit - but not terribly well hidden - affair with the Naiad Minthe.

Naturally, Persephone found out about the relationship between her husband and the water nymph. And in a scenario that is all too familiar in Greek myth, the spurned wife took revenge on her husband's mistress. Minthe became the unfortunate object of Persephone's wrath. The goddess of the Underworld began to step on Minthe, beating the poor Naiad with furious kicks. Minthe however was transformed into the mint plant, and with each tread of Persephone's foot, this plant released a delightful scent. This is the myth of how the aromatic mint plant received its name.

It is worth mentioning that there is an intriguing reference to the transformation of Minthe in the Metamorphoses of Ovid (Book X, line 729 ff.).

The name Minthe is sometimes spelled Menthe by some writers.

Who's Who in Classical Mythology This book is a great source for information about Greek and Roman mythology! Organized alphabetically, this who's who features information about over 1200 of the most intriguing characters from Classical myth and legend.	Bulfinch's Mythology The stories of Classical myth come to life in Bulfinch's book. This edition also features legends from other cultures.	Mythography Forums Do you have a specific question about Greek, Roman, and Celtic mythology? Then try the Mythography forum!