When was the Theogony poem by Hesiod composed?
Hesiod composed the Theogony in the 8th or 7th century BC. The written form of the text was likely established in the 6th century BC.
Questions about Theogony
Short answers, pulled from the story.
How many lines does the Theogony contain and what language is it written in?
This epic poem contains exactly 1,022 lines written in the epic dialect of Ancient Greek. It stands as one of the most important sources for understanding early Greek cosmology.
Who castrated Uranus to allow the Titans to be born?
Cronus the youngest Titan reached out and castrated his father Uranus when he came to lie with Gaia. This act enabled the Titans to be born and allowed Cronus to assume supreme command of the cosmos.
What are the earliest existing manuscripts of the Theogony and when do they date from?
The earliest existing manuscripts of the Theogony date from the end of the 13th century. An early example found in Vaticanus gr. 1825 dates to about 1310 based on watermarks.
Which gods were born from the blood of Uranus after Cronus castrated him?
When Cronus castrated Uranus his blood splattered onto the earth creating Erinyes Giants and Meliai nymphs. His severed genitals thrown into the sea created foam that transformed into Aphrodite.