Halloween Costumes

Most polytheistic cultures include several deities in their pantheon (literally means “temple of all gods”) both goddesses and gods, and in some cases, intersex deities.

Principal Greek Goddesses:

Artemis, daughter of Zeus and Leto and the twin sister of Apollo, was the goddess of forests and hills, often depicted as carrying a bow and arrows. Also she was identified with the Roman goddess Diana and with the Etruscan goddess, Artume.  Among the Greeks, Artemis was usually seen as the virgin huntress goddess.  Artemis often hunts with her brother. She carried a silver bow made by the Cyclopes. But her arrow shafts were made out of gold. Maidens and woodland nymphs and the mountain nymphs often accompanied her during her hunt.  They tried to remain virgin like the goddess they worshipped.  However, many of the gods, particularly her father (Zeus), often ravished her beautiful companions. 

Artemis is a maiden divinity never conquered by love. The priests and priestesses devoted to her service were bound to live pure and chaste, and transgressions of their vows of chastity were severely punished. Strangely enough, Artemis was also the protectress of young animals. She was like a game warden; she would kill any hunter who kills pregnant animals or their young.

Artemis drives her golden chariot from Smyrna to Claros, to meet her brother before hunting, while her horses were usually watered at Meles. Artemis was also the guardian of all wild animals of the forest, but the hind, bear, dog and boar were favorites. Artemis was often called the Lady of the Beasts. Her sacred tree was the laurel, like her brother. 

How to recreate the virgin Goddess?  An ideal Artemis Greek Goddess costume will need a white tunic/or short dress, a bright front drape with attached cape and a laurel headband.  A golden arc and bow will be a great add-on.