melpomene
Definition
Noun 1. (Greek mythology) The Muse of tragedy: In classical Greek mythology, Melpomene is one of the nine Muses, the goddesses who inspire the arts. She is specifically the Muse who presides over tragedy and, by later association, lyric poetry. She is often depicted holding a tragic mask, a sword or club, and wearing the cothurnus (a thick-soled boot worn by tragic actors).
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- In ancient art, Melpomene is frequently shown with the attributes of her domain.
- The playwright invoked Melpomene for inspiration before writing his darkest play.
- While Calliope is the Muse of epic poetry, Melpomene governs the genre of tragedy.
Advanced Usage
- As a personification: The name "Melpomene" is sometimes used poetically or metaphorically to represent the spirit or art of tragedy itself.
- The actor's performance was so powerful it seemed as if Melpomene herself had taken the stage.
Variants and Related Words
- Melpomenean (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of Melpomene or tragedy. (Rare, poetic usage).
- Tragic Muse: A direct descriptive synonym for Melpomene.
Synonyms
- The Muse of Tragedy (descriptive synonym)
- The Tragic Muse (descriptive synonym)
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To be under the sway of Melpomene: A literary phrase meaning to be engaged in or producing tragic drama.
- For a decade, the nation's greatest playwright was under the sway of Melpomene.
Noun
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(Greek mythology) the Muse of tragedy
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