Basilinna

For the genus of sapphire hummingbirds, see Basilinna (bird).

The Basilinna (Greek: Βασιλίννα) or Basilissa (βασίλισσα), both titles meaning "queen", was a ceremonial position in the religion of ancient Athens. It was held by the wife of the archon basileus ("archon-king"). During the Anthesteria, the basilinna was given as a ceremonial bride to Dionysus in a secret ritual that may have involved intercourse. She was attended to by 14 gerarai, all chosen and sworn to secrecy by her husband.

The role seems related to the figure of Ariadne, who helped Theseus (prince and later king of Athens) to escape Minos's labyrinth and eloped with him during his return to Athens. In many versions of the story, however, Theseus marooned her on an island, after which she was taken by Dionysus.

See also

• Basilissa, the title borne by Greek queens and Byzantine empresses

References

• Otto, Walter F. Dionysus, Myth and Cult. Spring Publications (1989). ISBN 0-88214-214-3

External links

• The Anthesteria Bibliotheca Arcana (1997)
• Dionysos at Athens: Tragedy, Comedy, and Cult