Danaides meaning

The Danaides were a group of sisters in Greek mythology condemned to endlessly pour water into a leaking container as punishment for their crimes.


Danaides definitions

Word backwards sedianaD
Part of speech Danaides is a noun.
Syllabic division Da-na-i-des
Plural The plural of the word Danaides is Danaides.
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) a,i,e
Consonants (4) d,n,s

The Danaides are a group of mythological figures from Greek mythology, famously known for their unfortunate fate in the underworld. According to the myth, the Danaides were the fifty daughters of Danaus, the king of Argos.

Origin and Mythology

The story of the Danaides centers around the forced marriage of the fifty sisters to their fifty cousins, the sons of King Aegyptus. Danaus instructed his daughters to murder their husbands on their wedding night, with all but one following through. As a result, the Danaides were condemned to an eternity of punishment in the underworld for their crimes.

Punishment and Symbolism

The punishment of the Danaides in the underworld is a notable theme in Greek mythology, symbolizing the consequences of betrayal and murder. The sisters were condemned to the task of filling a leaky vessel with water for eternity, a task that could never be completed. This symbolizes the futility and endlessness of their punishment.

Legacy and Influence

The story of the Danaides has been a popular subject in art, literature, and music throughout history. The theme of betrayal and punishment resonates with audiences, making it a timeless tale that continues to be retold and reinterpreted in various forms.

In conclusion, the myth of the Danaides serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of betrayal and violence. Their story reminds us of the enduring power of myth and the importance of heeding moral lessons from the past.


Danaides Examples

  1. The story of the Danaides is a famous Greek myth of 49 sisters who were punished for their actions.
  2. The Danaides are often used as a symbol of futility, stemming from their endless task in Hades.
  3. In literature, the Danaides are referenced in many works as an example of a doomed or unsuccessful endeavor.
  4. The term "Danaides' barrel" is sometimes used to refer to a task that is never-ending or impossible to complete.
  5. Some scholars believe that the myth of the Danaides may have origins in ancient Egyptian folklore.
  6. The Danaides are often portrayed in art as a group of women carrying water jugs with holes in them.
  7. Modern interpretations of the Danaides myth often focus on themes of power, revenge, and defiance.
  8. The Danaides' punishment serves as a cautionary tale in many cultures about the consequences of deceit and betrayal.
  9. The Danaides myth has been reimagined in various forms, including plays, poetry, and operas.
  10. Many writers and artists have drawn inspiration from the tragic tale of the Danaides throughout history.


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  • Updated 26/03/2024 - 13:31:06