Chthonia

Discover the enchanting origins and multifaceted nature of Hecate, the goddess of thresholds and transformation. Explore her ancient ties to magic and witchcraft, as well as her pivotal roles in mythology, such as guiding Demeter. Delve into the cultural complexities surrounding identity and the significance of transitional spaces. Learn how Hecate's worship evolved over time and her unique position among deities, balancing nurturing qualities with a dark, protective nature.

Website: https://chthonia.netPatreon: https://patreon.com/chthoniaMerch: https://chthoniapodcast.creator-spring.com/ISFM: https://instituteforfemininemyth.orgThis week's episode looks at the folkloric storm hags of Ireland, Scotland, and Lake Erie in the United States. While hag and witch figures often represent forces of nature, the Storm Hag represents a unique danger that comes at the end of winter--the fragile state of birth and rebirth.

This week we look at Nure-onna, a Yokai who preys on men who try to help or rescue an apparent woman and child in need. We look beyond any social explanations of the story, to explore the realities of nature and natural forces.

Dive into the enchanting world of the Queen of Elphame, a fascinating figure in Scottish fairy lore. Explore the intertwining of myth and matriarchy, and how goddess worship has evolved culturally. Discover the dark history behind witch trials and enchanting tales like 'Tam Lin,' revealing the perilous side of fairy folk. Journey through Ireland, contemplating liminal spaces between heaven and hell, and the intriguing nature of time in the fae realms. Embrace the legacy of Clan Mothers and their crucial role in Wiccan rituals.

Website: https://chthonia.netPatreon: https://patreon.com/chthoniaMerch: https://chthoniapodcast.creator-spring.com/School: https://instituteforfemininemyth.orgThis week's episode is about Nicnevin, a Scottish witch queen whose is first named in a poetic flyting (comedic poetry battle) written by Alexander Montgomerie in 1585. She is described as a fairy queen, a witch queen, a terrifying hag,the Scottish Hecate, a goddess, and/or the name of a witch burned at the stake. We examine the stories of Nicnevin and her associations; is she an ancient witch queen, or a literary invention?

Dive into the intriguing tale of Lilith, often hailed as Adam's first wife who challenged her subservient role. Discover her evolution from a demonized figure to a symbol of female empowerment and rebellion. The podcast delves into her origins in ancient texts and the complex relationship between femininity and societal perceptions of good and evil. Explore the intersections of ancient beliefs from Zoroastrianism and Jewish thought, and how these have shaped modern views on morality and power dynamics.

Website: https://chthonia.netPatreon: https://patreon.com/chthoniaMerch: https://chthoniapodcast.creator-spring.com/GoFundMe for Institute for the Study of Feminine Myth: https://gofund.me/5e24b8ec This week we look at the Waterford (Ireland) vampire, the Dearg Due. Unlike some other folkloric vampires, this one has its origins in a story about a forced marriage, star crossed lovers, and abuse of the feminine by a father and a husband. When we look at all the elements of the story, we end up with a story about the dangers of denying female sovereignty rather than a didactic tale about women who want to marry below their social station.

Website: https://chthonia.netBooks: https://chthonia.net/publicationsMerch: https://chthoniapodcast.creator-spring.com/Patreon: https://patreon.com/chthoniaThis week we look at Leviathan, the deep sea monster/demon that is characterized as feminine by Enoch, though we are told by other sources that there was a male and female Leviathan, and that the female was slain to be preserved as a feast for the righteous when the Messiah comes. What exactly is the Leviathan? I argue that comparative myths support the idea of a feminine Leviathan, and why the Christian conception of Leviathan as a devil/demon to be "cast into the abyss forever" makes no sense.

Dive into the fascinating tale of Jezebel, the controversial queen whose legacy raises questions about female power. Uncover how her reputation as the archetypal wicked queen stems from societal fears of empowered women. Explore her duality—both ruthless and vulnerable—as she navigated conflicts between Baalism and Yahwism. The discussion reveals her complex influence on perceptions of women in leadership, showcasing historical figures who defy traditional roles. This journey through ancient narratives challenges the definitions of morality and authority.

Website: https://chthonia.netPublications: https://chthonia.net/publicationsPatreon: https://patreon.com/chthoniaMerch: https://chthoniapodcast.creator-spring.com/This week's episode looks at the Sirens, bird-monsters with female heads (later represented as mermaids) whose song leads sailors to shipwreck and starvation. They are usually considered to be children of the Muses (Terpsichore or Melpomene), and the handmaidens of Persephone, who are either given bird wings to help in Demeter's search or to punish them for neglect at her abduction. Our modern use of the term "Siren" usually indicates a woman who leads a married man astray. What do we understand about the psychology of love and seduction from the stories of the Sirens?