Proserpine

Also known as: Preserver / Saviour Proserpine · Family: Greek gods · Role: goddess · First appears: Book 1 · Chapter 14

After Chrysanthis told Demeter of Proserpine’s rape at Argos, Pluto carried her off; accounts place his descent with her at Erineus and Lerna. Another account says Proserpine was gathering flowers when she was carried away. Pirithous later attempted to wed her, and Athene and Poseidon are named among those sharing honours with her.

In the following accounts, a temple to Saviour Proserpine was attributed either to Orpheus or Abaris, and Herodes erected new marble statues of Proserpine and Demeter. At a temple of the Great Goddesses and Aphrodite, women could enter at all times, while men could enter only once a year. When Pindar was advanced in years, Proserpine appeared to him as he slept and told him he would celebrate her in an ode.

Proserpine is also said to have played with Hercyna; when Hercyna’s goose hid beneath a stone, Proserpine retrieved it, and water sprang forth where she lifted the stone. Another account describes her gathering flowers with Athene and Artemis.