 |
| The Triumph of Galatea |
In Greek mythology, Galatea was a sea nymph, daughter of Nereus and Doris. She was wooed by the Cyclops Polyphemus, who received scorn and ridicule in return. Galatea's affection was won, however, by Acis, a handsome shepherd whom Polyphemus slew in a fit of jealous rage. He would have slain Galatea also, had she not excaped into the sea. Galatea is often called the queen of the sea. A celebrated fresco by Raphael in the Villa Farnesina represents Galatea drawn over the sea by dolphins accompanied by sea nymphs and sea gods. In the air above are cupids shooting arrows at Galatea's attendants. This work of art is called the
Triumph of Galatea. Handel has written an opera entitled
Acis and Galatea.
