In Greek mythology, Hegemone (Ancient Greek: Ἡγεμόνη means "mastery"[1] derived from hegemon "leader, ruler, queen"[2]) was a Greek goddess of plants, specifically making them bloom and bear fruit. According to Pausanias, Hegemone was a name given by the Athenians to one of the Graces. Auxo represented the spring, and Hegemone autumn.[3]

Myths and legends

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Hegemone was known for creating plants that would bloom and bear fruit.[citation needed] She is often associated with the season of autumn, along with Carpho, who is known to bring plants to their state of harvest.[citation needed]

Hegemone was the eldest of the elder Charites, worshipped alongside Auxo, representing the spring.[4] Hegemone was worshipped in Boeotian Orchomenus - known as Viota in modern mainland Greece - in the form of pieces of meteorites.[5]

Genealogy

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Hegemone is generally considered to be a descendant of Zeus and the Oceanid, Eurynome, though sources vary. She is sometimes referred to as a descendant of "The Sun", likely referring to either Apollo or Helios.

Other

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Hegemone is at the origin of the word hegemony and one of Jupiter's moons.

References

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  1. ^ Robert Graves (1960). The Greek Myths. Harmondsworth, London, England: Penguin Books. pp. s.v. Zeus and Hera. ISBN 978-0143106715.
  2. ^ Room, Adrian (2003). Who's Who in Classical Mythology. New York: Gramercy Books. p. 151. ISBN 0517222566.
  3. ^ Pausanias, Graeciae Descriptio 9.35.2
  4. ^ "CARPO (Karpo) - Greek Goddess Hora of Fruit". theoi.com.
  5. ^ Loar, Julie (2011). Goddesses for Every Day: Exploring the Wisdom and Power of the Divine Feminine Around the World. New World Library. ISBN 9781577319504. {{cite book}}: |website= ignored (help)