Photo by Danie Franco on Unsplash
Meet the deity who’s responsible for spreading grapevines across the world and teaching humans how to make wine (or so the story goes). Oh, and he knows how to throw a smashing party!
God of the Vine and Harvest
First and foremost, this guy was a farmer! (Well, a mythical farmer.)
Known as the Roman god of agriculture and fertility, Bacchus is credited for helping the grapevine grow, beginning in the spring, and is associated with the harvest in the fall. So, that pretty change of color when the grape berries ripen (aka “veraison”) is the work of Bacchus!
In fact, to celebrate Bacchus and the bountiful harvest, in October, people around the world hold feasts in his honor.
Photo by Rohit Tandon on Unsplash
Bacchanalia
Speaking of feasts, this guy knows how to throw a party… and his have been known to be quite scandalous! Also recognized as the god of intoxication, theatrical drama, liberation, and free love for all, Bacchus’ “divine mission” is to allow people to say and do as they wish, freeing them from social conventions, and encouraging new ways of thinking and acting. He also travels with an entourage of mythical creatures! All of this surely makes for some interesting and wildly dramatic parties. (It also reminds us to drink only in moderation, yes?)
God of Wine’s Greek and Italian Beginnings
Bacchus was not the first known “God of Wine,” however. Before he came along, there were the Greeks’ Dionysus, and the Italians’ Liber. Whether you are a fan of Bacchus, Dionysus, or Liber, you are sure to have something in common with all of the others: You love the vine, the harvest, a good party, the freedom to be, and let’s not forget… a good glass of wine!
Triumph of Bacchus and Ariadne, Annibale Carracci, 1595-1605
Located in Palazzo Farnese, Rome, Italy (Courtesy of Web Gallery of Art)
Published September 21, 2022
What’s your favorite way to celebrate the harvest? Share in the comments below!
