Origins of Cupid: A Mythological Delve.
By Princeton Chiu
As Valentine's Day approaches, love fills the air, celebrating romance and friendship. Among the many symbols of love, none is as iconic as Cupid. This legendary figure is depicted as both a god and a mortal across different cultures and mythologies. While his appearance and role vary, his association with love and desire remains universal.
The Mythological Origins of Cupid
In Greek mythology, Cupid was originally known as Eros (meaning "desire"), the god of love. He wielded a bow and arrow, capable of altering the emotions of gods and mortals alike. His Roman name, Cupīdō (Latin for "desire" or "passion"), reflects his influence over love and attraction.
However, historical accounts of his origins differ significantly. Some myths claim he emerged from the primordial World Egg, while others suggest he was born from Nyx (goddess of the night) and Erebus (god of darkness). Other versions name his parents as Zeus, Aphrodite, Venus and Mars, or even Iris (goddess of the rainbow) and Zephyrus (god of the West Wind).
Originally, Eros was depicted as a youthful, winged man, sometimes described as more powerful than the gods themselves. Other sources, however, downplay his strength, portraying him as a lesser deity or even a mere servant of Aphrodite, acting only on her command.
Eros in Ancient Greek Literature
By 700 BCE, Greek literary sources commonly depicted Eros as a handsome yet fearsome youth, capable of causing both gods and mortals to fall in love, often leading to chaos. He was described as uncontrollable, playing with hearts and disrupting the natural order of the world.
In Antigone (440 BCE) by Sophocles, Eros is portrayed as an unstoppable force:
“Eros, invincible in battle,
You who fall upon men’s property,
You who spend the night upon the soft cheeks of a girl,
And travel over the sea and through the huts of dwellers in the wild!
None among the immortals can escape you,
Nor any among mortal men, and he who has you is mad.”
(Translation from The Times)
Similarly, in Euripides’ Hippolytus, love (Eros) is feared as something that can come with "murderous intent," further highlighting his power over the hearts of gods and mortals.
From Mischief to Matchmaker
Despite his reputation for sowing chaos, some myths suggest that Eros was ultimately under the influence of his mother, Aphrodite. This perspective shifted his image from a reckless force to a benevolent figure who fostered meaningful relationships rather than disaster.
This idea carried over into Roman mythology, where Eros became Cupid. Unlike his Greek counterpart, the Roman Cupid was often portrayed as a mischievous child rather than a powerful youth, an image that evolved into the cherubic figure we recognize today.
Cupid in Art and Valentine’s Day Traditions
During the Renaissance, artists like Caravaggio depicted Cupid as a nude, winged boy armed with a bow and arrows. By the 19th century, Cupid became closely associated with Valentine’s Day, symbolizing love’s magical and unpredictable nature.
Today, Cupid remains a beloved figure of romance, appearing on Valentine’s Day cards, decorations, and advertisements. His transformation from an awe-inspiring force to a playful, matchmaking cherub reflects humanity’s evolving understanding of love—once feared, now celebrated.
Further Reading
For more on Cupid’s mythological origins and cultural impact: