By J. Ray

Redstone Review

PINEWOOD SPRINGS – One of the most beloved of the ancient Greek gods was Dionysus, god of grapes and wine-making. He gave mirth and gaiety to humankind as well as welcome relief from everyday pressures. However, the pragmatic Greeks were quick to acknowledge the dark side of his gifts. A cult of women called the Maenads was associated with the worship of Dionysus. Often driven mad with wine, they ran over the hills in a screaming frenzy, killing animals and eating their raw flesh. It was a gruesome warning against the ugly consequences of abusing alcohol.

Dionysus didn’t begin life as a god but became one later. He was the result of one of Zeus’ many love affairs with mortal women. In this case it was the Theban princess Semele. It’s no surprise that Hera, Zeus’ jealous wife, quickly put an end to her. Luckily, Zeus was able to save the baby and he was later raised by wood nymphs. As a grown man, Dionysus was admired for his youthful beauty which can be seen in the many sculptures and vase paintings of him. The Greek myths are full of entertaining stories about the adventures of the handsome and popular god of wine. These morality tales presented at religious festivals eventually became the basis of Greek drama as evidenced in Euripides’ play The Bacchae.

Dionysus traveled far and wide teaching the cultivation of grapes and the making of wine. His frequent traveling companion was the satyr Silenus, who often over-indulged. In one story, the drunken Silenus wandered off and passed out in the garden of the Lydian King Midas. After ten days of entertaining the king’s court with songs and laughter, Silenus was returned safely to the wine god.  Dionysus was so overjoyed to see his friend he asked the king to name anything he wanted as a reward. The greedy Midas asked that whatever he touched would turn to gold. Dionysus warned against this choice, but granted the king’s wish.

Midas went about happily changing rocks into gold before returning home for a feast. He realized his mistake when every mouthful he tried to eat quickly turned to gold. Even his soft robes and pillows turned to gold. The horrified king begged Dionysus to reverse his wish. The sympathetic god told Midas to bathe in the River Pactolus, which he did. The golden curse was lifted, turning the river sands to gold in the process.

The Romans adopted all things Greek, including their gods and myths. In Latin Dionysus was called Bacchus and his popular festivals were known as Bacchanalias. In fact, these celebrations became a little too popular, especially the many held in secret with secret ceremonies. The Roman senate ultimately considered them dangerous and subversive. They abolished Bacchanalias in 186 B.C., but were unable to stop the worship of the charismatic god of wine.

J. Ray is a historian, free-lance writer, and former teacher.  She lives in Pinewood Springs.

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