Ancient Greeks: Science and Wisdom

Ancient Greek philosophers believed they could count on the muses to dispense wisdom. This group of goddesses, usually thought to number nine, were beseeched for aid on a wide spectrum of subjects. Clio, for example, was versed in history, while Euterpe was the muse to sound out about flute playing, and Urania held the secrets to astronomy. Those seeking their favour – and the creativity that flowed from it – had the option of visiting shrines dedicated to them, with a famous cult centre established in the Vale of the Muses below Mount Helicon. This place of worship held statues of historical notables in the arts and was known as a ‘Mouseion’, from which we get the modern word ‘mus