In Greek mythology, Mecon (in Ancient Greek Μήκων, Mḗkо̄n, meaning "poppy"), also spelled Mekon, was a beautiful[1] young Athenian man, loved by the goddess Demeter who was transformed into a poppy.[2]

Mythology

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The handsome Mecon became the lover of the agricultural goddess Demeter. He was transformed into a poppy flower at some point for his own preservation.[3][4] Demeter was greatly associated with poppies, the flower seen as one of her symbols.

See also

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Notes

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  1. ^ Servius on Virgil's Eclogues 2.47
  2. ^ Wright, M. Rosemary. "A Dictionary of Classical Mythology: Summary of Transformations". mythandreligion.upatras.gr. University of Patras. Retrieved January 3, 2023.
  3. ^ Smith, s.v. Mecon
  4. ^ Servius on Virgil's Georgics 1.212

References

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  • Maurus Servius Honoratus. In Vergilii carmina comentarii. Servii Grammatici qui feruntur in Vergilii carmina commentarii; recensuerunt Georgius Thilo et Hermannus Hagen. Georgius Thilo. Leipzig. B. G. Teubner. 1881.
  • William Smith. A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology. London. John Murray: printed by Spottiswoode and Co., New-Street Square and Parliament Street.
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