Morpheus (fashioner) In Greek mythology, god of dreams; one of the sons of Hypnos (Somnus), who was god of sleep. His brother Icelus created dreams in animals, and his brother Phantastus created dreams in inanimate objects. Ovid’s Metamorphoses (book 11) describes the Cave of Sleep. Chaucer’s Book of the Duchess (137) calls Morpheus “the god of sleep.” The word morphine is derived from the god’s name.
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow
Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante
Morpheus
He Who Forms
Morpheus is the Lord of Dreams, son of Hypnos, Lord of Sleep. His name derives from the same root as metamorphoses. The drug morphine is named in his honor.
Morpheus is petitioned for anything having to do with the dream process. He can protect against frightening dreams but is also invoked for prophetic or more frequent dreams.
Morpheus is the star and title character in Neil Gaiman’s comic series, The Sandman.
Flower: Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum)
SEE ALSO:
Hypnos; Nyx; Oneirei; Somnos; Thanatos
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.