Nota sulla dinamica fra maschile e femminile in alcuni miti di autoctonia [Note on the dynamic between masculine and feminine in some myths about autochthony]

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of autochthony as attested in some classical myths, and studies in particular the interweaving between masculine and feminine elements. These two poles stand in a relation which is not of opposition, but of complementarity; intertwined with other themes such as the city-founder coming from afar, they serve to paint the image of a homeland that is both mother and father. This combination is summed up with special political and symbolic efficacy in the Athenian sources.

Keywords

• autochthony
• myths and variants
• athens
• hegemony
• democracy
• greek history
• ancient greek language
• mythology