Greek Mythological Character, Getty Museum: my art school

Passmoore, Works Of Alexander & I.V.

- Bacchus, the drunkard every alcohol hedonist can admire. To the Greeks, he was Dionysus / Dionysos. Bulfinch's Mythology: "Bacchus (Dionysus), the god of wine, was the son of Jupiter and Semele. He represents not only the intoxicating power of wine, but its social and beneficent influences likewise, so that he is viewed as the promoter of civilization, and a lawgiver and lover of peace.... Liber is the Latin name of Bacchus. Jove took the infant Bacchus and gave him in charge to the Nysaean nymphs, who nourished his infancy and childhood, and for their care were rewarded by Jupiter by being placed, as the Hyades, among the stars. When Bacchus grew up he discovered the culture of the vine and the mode of extracting its precious juice; but Juno struck him with madness, and drove him forth a wanderer through various parts of the earth. In Phrygia the goddess Rhea cured him and taught him her religious rites, and he set out on a progress through Asia, teaching the people the cultivation of the vine. The most famous part of his wanderings is his expedition to India, which is said to have lasted several years. Returning in triumph, he undertook to introduce his worship into Greece, but was opposed by some princes, who dreaded its introduction on account of the disorders and madness it brought with it." Series Description: A fancy art museum near Santa Monica -- 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90049. For more than a year, I maintained a steadfast regimen, going every Thursday evening. Regularly viewing the works of old masters proved educational... almost like an art school.