The Constellations of Callisto and Arcas: Ursa Major and Ursa Minor

 HELLO AND WELCOME TO MY BLOG!

Hello there, history lovers! Welcome to my little corner of the internet. Today, we're going to dive into the fascinating world of Callisto, one of the most intriguing figures in Greek mythology.

Artemis and the beautiful nymph Kallisto, Eros, other nymphs - period/date: the fourth style of Pompeian wall painting - height: 113 cm - width: 96 cm - findspot: Pompeii VII, 12, 26, amb. (h) - museum/inventory number: Napoli, Museo Archeologico Nazionale 111441 

First, let's get to know Callisto a little better. She was a nymph and one of the many lovers of the Greek god Zeus. However, when Zeus's wife, Hera, found out about the affair, she was less than pleased. In fact, she was downright furious.

The Campana Hera, a 2nd-century Roman copy of a Hellenistic original. Louvre, Paris

So what did Hera do? Well, being the vengeful goddess that she was, she turned Callisto into a bear. Yes, you read that right. A bear. And not just any bear, but a bear with the ability to think and feel like a human.

Arcas is about to kill his mother, engraved by Hendrik Goltzius, 16th-17th century.

Now, can you imagine how confusing that must have been for poor Callisto? One minute she's a beautiful nymph frolicking in the woods, and the next she's a furry forest creature with a penchant for honey. Talk about a transformation!

Apulian Red-Figure Chous (Shape 3) with Kallisto Turning into a Bear, about 360 BCE, Terracotta, Attributed to Near the Black Fury Group (Greek (Apulian), active early 300s BCE), J. Paul Getty Museum

But the story doesn't end there. Callisto's son, Arcas, who was fathered by Zeus, eventually stumbled upon his mother in her bear form. Not recognizing her, he raised his bow to shoot the bear. In a stroke of divine intervention, Zeus intervened and turned Arcas into a bear as well. Thus, the two became the constellations, Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.

Ursa Major and Ursa Minor in relation to Polaris

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Callisto got a pretty raw deal, didn't she?" And you're not wrong. But let's not forget that in Greek mythology, no one's life is exactly a bed of roses. It's all part of the drama and excitement!

Jupiter in the Guise of Diana Seducing Callisto, Jacob Adriaensz Backer, oil on canvas

So there you have it, folks. A brief but fascinating glimpse into the world of Callisto. I hope you enjoyed this little journey through mythology, and that it's piqued your interest in learning more about the incredible stories that have shaped our world. Just remember, if you ever see a bear in the woods, make sure to double-check that it's not a nymph in disguise!

Zeus disguised as Artemis, with Callisto

Hey, I forgot the mention! (All thanks to my dear Rukiye) Did you know that Callisto was more than just a lover of Zeus? She was also best buds with the goddess Artemis! In fact, they were hunting partners and close friends. But even as a bear, Callisto and Artemis remained loyal to each other, showing us the power of true friendship.

Callisto and Zeus as Artemis. The presence of Zeus' eagle shows that things are not as they look. 3822: Zeus (as Artemis) and Callisto. Jacob de Wit 1695-1754: Jupiter disguised as Diana, seducing the nymph Callisto. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.

Oh, by the way, Just wanted to remind you that in addition to my history blog, I also have another blog dedicated to the amazing stories and facts from aviation. It's called aviationisamazing.blogspot.com, and it's packed with interesting facts from the past and nowadays. If you're a fan of learning about aviation in a fun and engaging way, then be sure to check it out! Who knows, you might just learn something new, or at least have a good laugh. Let me know in the comments if you're interested in hearing more!

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