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Coin with Nemesis figure |
In Greek mythology, Nemesis was the goddess of retribution. She was the daughter of Erebus and Night, or, according to some accounts of Zeus and Necessity. She represented the righteous anger of the gods. In case a mortal became insolent or haughty, or puffed up by overweening pride, it was the part of Nemesis to inflict suitable punishment, and bring the erring one into a state of due humility. She is represented in art as a woman of majestic bearing, wrapped in a tunic. Sometimes she is seated in a car drawn by dragons. Her figure appears frequently on ancient coins and costly gems. Her worship was widespread.