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
Epithets: Halosydne ("Sea-Nourished"), Silver-Footed
Equivalents: None directly, though parallels can be drawn with other water deities.
Religion: Greek mythology
Sacred Texts: Mentioned in The Iliad by Homer (~8th century BCE)
Iconography: Often shown with sea creatures or in scenes with Achilles.
Relations: Nereus (father), Doris (mother), Achilles (son), Peleus (husband)
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.
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.
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Limited evidence of direct worship, but she was revered in some regions like Sparta.