The primary female goat in mythology is Amalthea.
Amalthea: The Foster Mother of Zeus
Amalthea is a significant figure in Greek mythology, primarily known for her role in the upbringing of Zeus, the king of the gods. She is depicted as a she-goat and her story is rich with mythical elements.
Key Aspects of Amalthea:
- Foster Mother: Amalthea acted as Zeus' foster mother. She nursed the infant Zeus in a cave on Mount Aigaion in Crete, also known as "Goat Mountain", away from his father, Cronus, who intended to devour him.
- Symbol of Nurturance: She represents nurturing and care, taking on the parental role when Zeus was vulnerable.
- The Cornucopia: A fascinating detail of the myth recounts that baby Zeus accidentally broke off one of Amalthea’s horns. This horn, blessed with divine power, became the cornucopia or horn of plenty, eternally producing food and riches. This object became a potent symbol of abundance and prosperity.
Summary of Amalthea's Role:
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Amalthea |
| Species | She-goat |
| Role | Foster mother of Zeus |
| Location | Cave on Mount Aigaion, Crete |
| Key Feature | Horn that became the cornucopia (horn of plenty) |
Amalthea is an important example of the presence of animals in classical mythology and their significant roles in the stories and symbolism.
