The Naiads Picture

In Greco-Roman mythology the Naiads (or flowing ones) were a type of nymph or female spirit that resided in the rivers and streams as well as fountains, wells, springs, brooks and other bodies of freshwater.

Like sirens, they were considered the daughters of river gods and they were often loved by gods so many of the Naiades married local kings and played a prominent role in the genealogies of the royal families of myth.

Favourably inclined and gentle towards young girls (washing off their freckles when they bathed), they were most likely regarded as the goddess-protectors of the community's water supply.

However, Naiads could be dangerous and known to exhibit jealous tendencies such as blinding lovers to get revenge. They had an aggressive behaviour directed at young men coming near their watery territories, whom they dragged down to their abodes. They would mislead travellers with their illusions, seduce young virgin boys with their beauty, and lure lovers to their depths.

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