Erinyes, also known as the Furies, are mythological figures originating from ancient Greek mythology. In Greek, their name, Erinyes, can be translated to mean "the avengers" or "the ones who pursue," highlighting their role as deities associated with punishment and vengeance.
In Greek mythology, the Erinyes were three primordial goddesses closely associated with the underworld and the administration of justice. They were believed to be the daughters of the goddess of darkness, Nyx. The Erinyes consisted of three sisters: Alecto (the unceasing), Megaera (the grudging), and Tisiphone (the avenger).
As divine figures of vengeance, the Erinyes were particularly concerned with crimes committed within families, especially those against parents or siblings. Their appearance was often described as terrifying, with snakes entwined in their hair, bloodshot eyes, and beasts' wings. Armed with serpents and torches, they pursued and tormented the guilty, causing madness, illness, and other misfortunes upon them.
Their role was not only restricted to punishment, but also served as a reminder of the importance of moral order and respect for familial relationships. The Erinyes were sometimes invoked in legal matters to ensure justice was duly served and to prevent the guilty from evading punishment.
In summary, Erinyes refer to the avenging deities in Greek mythology who pursued and punished individuals guilty of crimes against their families. They represented the moral order and the administration of justice within ancient Greek society.
