Olympias' story

[Polyxena]

Hi Smitty,Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Yes, that was my question too: if Philip had believed of an affair why he would have invested so much in Alexander's education... and yes, in consequence, he would have disposed his mother. So, do you think that she was some sort of Orphic priestess? And do you think also that that's why she took the name Myrtale? There was one post named "Why Polyxena changed her name to Myrtale" where we talked a lot about the reason of this change (you can check this). Regards

[smittysmitty]

I don't have my books with me, but I'm quite certain Justin(Trogus) is the only one that mentions the name Myrtale, and if I recall correctly that was her original name. The name Olympias is given to her by Philip in honour of the success he had at the Olympic games with his horses.As to whether she was a priestess of the Orphic religion is hard to know, but as I'm sure you are familiar with Plutarch he states that she was particulary excessive with practicing the rights!Another interesting point is she was initiated as well as Philip into the religion at Samo Thrace, which is rather a long way from home for her, and may indeed have been a priestess of sorts, but her royal title suggests to me perhaps not.just my thoughts.Cheers!

[bill giannakos]

Dear friend Smitty
i believe you know that Orpheus was from Thrace.All great leaders were into these ritual's in all greece.It was the biggest religion in greece.I suggest you to read Orpheus hymns.It contains truths for the world.And try to read between the lines of Odysseia.'
regards bill