Metaphysical Properties

In Greek mythology, Dionysus is the god of wine, ecstasy, fertility, and theater. He's also known as Bacchus, a name adopted by the Romans. 

Meaning

• Liberator

  Dionysus was also known as Eleutherios, which means "the liberator". He's said to have freed men of their inhibitions through wine. 

• Dual nature

  Dionysus had a dual nature, as both a provider of happiness and a defender of his authority. 

• Ecstasy

  Dionysus was associated with religious ecstasy and ritual madness, which was also a form of theater. 

Cult

• Dionysus had a cult that included wine, dancing, and loud music. 

• The cult of Dionysus became one of the most important in Greece and spread throughout the ancient world. 

• The Great Dionysia, or City Dionysia, was an annual festival in Athens that honored Dionysus. It's said to be the origin of tragedy, comedy, and satyric drama. 

Other aspects

• Dionysus was associated with orchards, fruit, vegetation, and festivity. 

• In some legends, those who questioned Dionysus faced his anger, often experiencing madness or transformation.