hermaphroditos

Hermaphroditos is a figure from Greek mythology, the child of the gods Hermes and Aphrodite. He possessed both male and female physical characteristics. According to the myth, as a youth, Hermaphroditos was exceptionally beautiful and was desired by the nymph Salmacis. When she was unable to seduce him, she prayed to the gods that they would never be parted. Her prayer was answered, and their bodies fused into one, creating a being with both male and female genitalia.

The story of Hermaphroditos is often interpreted as an explanation for the existence of intersex individuals. While the myth highlights his dual nature, it also carries a cautionary element, suggesting the dangers of excessive desire and the potential consequences of divine intervention. In art, Hermaphroditos has been depicted in various forms throughout history, often as a statue that portrays his androgynous nature. These representations have contributed to the enduring image of Hermaphroditos as a symbol of duality and the complex nature of gender and sexuality. The myth serves as a significant point of reference in discussions about gender identity and the representation of intersexuality in classical antiquity.