When asking himself a question, a satyr - who is this, a person should understand that the modern interpretation is somehow different from that given by the Greeks. Today, satires, as mythical creatures, are identified with lust and debauchery in a negative way, while in the days of antiquity they were more likely goodies.
Satyr: Mythology of Ancient Greece
The Greeks considered satyrs to be the companions of the god of wine and fun of Dionysus. They helped him arrange holidays and took part in fun.
Different representations of how the satyr looked. Mythology claims that he had horse or goat legs, ears and a tail, as well as horns. Horse phallus is sometimes added to this portrait. This is understandable, since Dionysus was responsible for fertility in all its manifestations, including human fertility. In those days, physical love was considered in the context of fertility, so satires were revered in this aspect. The obligatory satyr play is proof of this - a small part of the theatrical performance, which was organized in honor of Dionysus as the god of wine, fun and fertility at the end of each play.
Fauns
With the passage of time and the expansion of the empire of the Romans, the functions and qualities of the satyr changed. They mixed with the ideas of the Romans about the fauns. But the faun is not a satyr. Mythology indicates that the fauns resemble a goat, and satyrs resemble horses. Today, using the words "satyr" and "faun", people often think that these are different names for the same mythical character.
At the same time, the faun is a spirit of nature, which, in turn, was connected with the Greek Pan. In other words, there is no trace of the original functions of these characters. The Roman tradition is firmly entrenched in art and literature, so satyrs are portrayed as owners of a human body and goat legs.
Art and mythology
Early Greek art portrayed the retinue of Dionysus as old and ugly creatures. But the schools of art are changing, and with them the satyr. Mythology, under the influence of the works of the Attic school, begins to depict satyrs in the aspect of fertility, youth and fun.
They are lovers of pleasure, fun and women. Their initial wildlife is gradually changing under the influence of the currents of humanism. Satires from the lustful companions of the god of wine and joy in all its manifestations turn into carefree and kind dance lovers. In one of Aesop's fables, the satyr (mythology had already changed somewhat by this time) is described as a hospitable host who is surprised at the inconstancy of people.