Place of Origin: Ancient Greece
Origin Date: Prominent in Greek mythology from the Archaic period (~8th century BCE)
Domain: Sea, motherhood, protection
Symbols: Water, sea creatures
Attributes: Shape-shifting, protective mother
Religion: Greek mythology
Description
Thetis is a sea goddess and one of the 50 Nereids, daughters of Nereus and Doris. Known for her beauty and wisdom, she played a significant role in Greek mythology, particularly as the mother of Achilles. She was courted by Zeus and Poseidon but was married to the mortal Peleus due to a prophecy that her son would surpass his father. Thetis is often depicted aiding gods and mortals, such as helping Zeus during a rebellion and providing Achilles with divine armor.
Relations: Nereus (father), Doris (mother), Achilles (son), Peleus (husband)
Epithets: Halosydne ("Sea-Nourished"), Silver-Footed
Equivalents: None directly, though parallels can be drawn with other water deities.
Iconography: Often shown with sea creatures or in scenes with Achilles.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Limited evidence of direct worship, but she was revered in some regions like Sparta.
Narratives
The Wedding of Thetis and Peleus: A grand event attended by gods, where Eris introduced the Golden Apple, leading to the Trojan War.
Thetis and Achilles: Her attempts to make Achilles immortal and her grief over his fate.
Sacred Texts: Mentioned in The Iliad by Homer (~8th century BCE)