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Abstract

In mythological studies and depth psychology, Artemis and Gaia are frequently referenced as the key female “nature” deities in the Greek pantheon. Often unexplored are the nature aspects of Aphrodite, the beautiful Greek Goddess of Love, who, according to legend, had great influence over fertility and other natural phenomena. Apples, birds, eggs, gardens, islands, mountains, roses, seashores, sun, and water are natural elements associated with Aphrodite. Aphrodite’s ancient rituals promoted new life and regeneration. The Goddess of Love’s archetypal resonance (used here in a Jungian sense, representing a collective, inherited, unconscious pattern of behavior, thought, or image) evokes themes vital to ecopsychology. New approaches to therapy and education may be possible, related to Aphrodite’s myths and rituals.

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Aphrodite and Ecology: The Goddess of Love as Nature Archetype

Abstract

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References