Wow What A Great Idea Neoptolemus Mestor!!!!

Wow what a great idea Neoptolemus Mestor!!!!

Taken from a story from the Trojan War Chronicle by Dictys Cretensis. Within this story Peleus has been thrown from his land. In order to kill the usurpers, Neoptolemus dresses as one of his trojan slaves (Mestor the son of Priam) and proposes the idea that they should wipe out the whole bloodline and kill the sleeping Neoptolemus where he lies in a cave. After leading the traitors to the cave he surprises and kills them, allowing his grandfather to rule his lands once more. 

The king of Epirus and his bodyguard.

Little king Pyrrhus and his bodyguard Chaon who used to be a trojan prince. Pyrrhus should have kept eating his veggies and drinking his milk

where did your love of neoptolemus come from please tell me all about your special boy

Of course of course, there aren't enough words.

I really came about getting into Neoptolemus from getting properly into Classics, part of having hyperfixiations/special interests is really learning everything you can on that subject. That was the case with Neoptolemus, I started learning more and more about Achilles and his deal and it led me to learn about him as well.

A lot the current 'fandom' of Greek mythology/classics comes from Madeline Miller so while trying to learn more and more about Neoptolemus and the other characters I saw the information presented by texts and then the way the fandom behaved. These conflicting sides of things only further got me into learning more, and it is where a lot of my love for Neo comes from. I found myself really taken by the characterization of Neo in works like 'Philoctetes' by Sophocles and 'Fall of Troy' by Quintus. I interpreted his character as far more sympathetic. I will not lie he does very terrible things, but so do all the Greeks and arguably Trojans as well. However he is a fictional character at the end of the day, and when judging him from the stance of his sources you need the context of when and who is writing it. For those antique texts it matters a lot if Romans or Greeks were the ones writing them.

None the less I really found myself drawn to him and his story, a lot of my own 'canon' is heavily changed/interpreted from the original but I will never lie and say that is it the correct, because it isn't. Most of the art I depict him in is my own canon and not correct, even some of my pieces of him are different canons. As I have gotten to know his character more and more I have changed the way I chose to write his story and the surrounding 'au's I have.

Now the timeline of the epic cycle isn't real lol

the epic cycle isn't meant to be read as super linear, none of the antique writers were counting out the years, they just called someone an 'old man' or 'young man' and called it a day (it is a bit more complex than that but this is a simplification) but when you think about that in versions of Achilles leaving the island of Skyros either Neo wasn't born yet or was still very small this means that by the time of the 10th year of the war Neo could very well be from 10-15, I generally put it at 13-ish.

He is a child soldier drafted into a war, and that aspect of his character and how that must shape a person is very interesting to me. Some childhood trauma I think is something a fair bit of us can relate to. I don't see him through the lenses of Madeline Miller or Virgil, I see him just as a traumatized kid reacting to the world around him in the best way he can. Trying to survive and being influenced by the many adults around him, the adults around him are the ones that have agenda and plans, the ones who more so care about fame and glory. He is a child responding to all that. He has only loose idea of those concepts. Furthermore Neo's story doesn't end in the abrupt way that Madeline Miller writes it in SoA.

There is a lot more going on and there are a fair amount of details that go on between the time that Neo leaves the shores of Troy and is buried in Delphi.

That is another thing that draws me to Neo but also to most everyone in the epic cycle. what you see with basic google searches and in many books surrounding these myths is only the most basic things, there are so many more myths and small details that you find out from sitting down and reading texts, combing through these stories and Neo was exactly the same. There are plenty of little details that he has that can influence the way you see him when you just look a bit deeper and for me those make all the difference. I think some of the beauty can be found in the drama, in the sadness of these characters. In the details and pieces that others will miss because they never looked deeper.

I could truly could just go on and on about my thoughts on Neo and what motivates me to love him.

In my mind it is a true shame that people will learn about Neoptolemus from Madeline Miller's, Song of Achilles and will never look deeper and just accept everything she says in her book.

She is straight wrong and in some cases the way she portrays things are harmful.

It pains me when I see people take her work for fact, it only pushes me to create to try and get people to see Neoptolemus for what I see, for all the possibilities I see in him. I create more and more for myself and for my friends who like my work and inspire me, but I also create in the hopes of getting others to see what I see.

To inspire them to look deeper into these amazing characters in the same way as I have been inspired.

Sumeru's big four and the four Cardinal Virtues (3.4)

Some for fun-lore notes about a potential connection between the main characters featured during the Sumeru Archon quest and philosophy (or just an excuse to write and do some character analysis using the virtues as foundation.) Archived for future reference + whoever might be interested in reading!

Virtue ethics is very extensive and will vary slightly between different cultures. It can be traced back to Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, and the Epicureans in the West and philosophers like Mencius and Confucius in the East. I am primarily looking at Ancient Greece, Plato and Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics as a point of reference and framework given how much of Plato's philosophy is already present in Hoyo's games, but keep in mind that these notes are simplified observations of the main four virtues in classical philosophy and Christian theology. Sources are either directly linked or listed at the end! The virtues are:

Prudence

Justice

Fortitude or Courage

Temperance

Prudence

(From Latin: prudencia, contracted from providencia meaning 'seeing ahead', 'foresight'.) In modern days, it is used interchangeably with cautiousness.

Often translated to as Wisdom despite using different Greek terms (prudencia derived from 'phrónēsis', φρόνησῐς differentiated distinctly by Aristotle from θεωρία 'sapientia' for its practical attribute) and associated with knowledge, prudence is the ability to judge what action is appropriate at a given time and place. It regulates all other virtues and measures the circumstances for their operation. Uninvolved in the action itself, prudence is the intellectual virtue of using reason to discern the best approach.

Alhaitham's entire involvement during the archon quest was that of a strategist, he makes sound judgements and carefully considers the consequences of actions in order to devise the plan to rescue Nahida from imprisonment. He measured the grounds for the exercise of all three other virtues, and devised the best course of action. Without Prudence, courage may become recklessness in excess, or cowardice in deficiency. Temperance may be self-indulgence or callousness, etc. For this reason, this virtue is also known as the "mother of all virtues". Aristotle referred to this concept as the golden mean; the mean between two extremes.

Alhaitham specifically has many other connections to Aristotle in his design, his talent names for example; 'Four-Causal Correction' referencing Aristotle's Four Causes, 'Universality: An Elaboration on Form' possibly alluding to his advancements of Plato's Theory of Forms in his work. The words on his splash art "Telos" (τέλος, 'completion') and "hule" (ὕλη, material 'cause') are another nod at the Four Causes, and "dunamis" (δύναμις, 'potentiality') references the principles of Potentiality and actuality in Aristotelian thought. He also shares similar philosophies and ethical system; fixed moral principals mediated by deductive logic, and the game's emphasis on his very clear priorities for a simple, happy life mirrors Aristotle's 'quest' for a good life or eudaimonia (happiness).

In art (Christian Theology in particular), the most common symbols associated with Prudence are the serpent, the owl (a more modern addition) and the mirror. This latter emblem also fits in accordance to the work of Haitham's namesake Ibn al-Haytham, the mathematician and polymath who wrote The Book of Optics. Mirrors are used historically to represent self-reflection and introspection, however they also have a deeper symbolism within the game's worldbuilding alongside reflections (hydromancy), vision, light and color... but that's an optics analysis for another time 0(-(

Justice

"Prudence was assigned to the rulers and to reason. Justice stands outside the class system and divisions of man, and rules the proper relationship among the three [cardinal virtues]."

The easiest one to associate, Cyno, of whom a large portion of his character revolves around the virtue of Justice and enacting judgement, also a nod to his connection to the god Hermanubis.

[Hermanubis (Ἑρμάνουβιϲ) is the combination of the Greek deity Hermes and the Egyptian Anubis, both of whom share psychopompos status (beings in charge of guiding the deceased to the afterlife). This god's origin can be traced back to Alexandria and Cynopolis, the origin of Cyno's name and is specific to the Roman Period. The name 'Hermanubis' was also borne by Alexandrian and Cynopolite individuals, the latter instance being found among a family of priests (usually a hereditary role back then). The french Egyptologist Jean-Claude Grenier analyses Anubis and his connection to Hermes and Mercury vs Hermes-Thoth at length in his book Anubis Alexandrin Et Romain (1977), and it's super interesting! He mentions Hermes' ancient portrayal as a canine, what that means and the links between Hermanubis and Hermes Trimegistus*.]

The concept of Justice Cyno upholds vs the material form of justice (as a system, with physical written laws) is an important distinction. It does not answer to any man-made jurisdiction or authority; Cyno exiled himself once the actions of the sages did not align with the notion of Justice he wants to preserve, and he obtained his vision whilst contemplating the legitimacy of one of the six cardinal sins of the Akademiya. There is an emphasis on his character stories on him treating criminals on equal grounds with the rest, waiting until they are safely escorted to the Akademiya before passing judgement. This is a significant point in virtue ethics. When talking about Justice as a virtue, it is more about the Planotic version of it, the concept as a whole:

"[Plato] used the Greek word "Dikaisyne" for justice which comes very near to the work 'morality' or 'righteousness', it properly includes within it the whole duty of man. It also covers the whole field of the individual's conduct in so far as it affects others. Plato contended that justice is the quality of soul [...]" - On Plato's concept of Justice

Plato's true justice involves harmony, non-interference, and the principle of limit. Each individual performs their own duties not for themselves but for the health of the whole. "Unlimited self-assertion is not a source of strength [...], unlimited desire and claims lead to conflicts."

Cyno describes himself as a vessel. Just like Anubis's role was that of an intermediary that brought souls to judgement, Cyno works as a mediator ["Judicator of Secrets", "Twilight Arbiter"] for a form of Justice that transcends him and exists beyond his own perception (perhaps related to his lineage or connection to King Deshret's priest Kasala,,,). He too must be judged in the same way.

"Only the law can judge you, and my role here is to bring you to face the scales." - Cyno's character story 2 "You may say that I have received much diving favor... [referring to his powers and electro vision] ...But I have no intention of letting this affect my code of justice. I will simply continue to do whatever is required to fulfill my duty." - 'About the Vision' voiceline

Justitia, the allegorical personification of Justice is also depicted by/ with scales as a common symbol alongside the blindfold or blindness. [We see some Eremite enemies wearing a blindfold, which may be connected to survivors who benefitted from Forbidden Knowledge as per The Lay of Al-Ahmar; "...they fell into eternal silence. It's said that they were made blind and mute as punishment..." Though vision, silence and 'blindness' seems to have an overall deeper symbolism in Genshin, going beyond just the concept of justice.] She is also often paired with Prudentia in Ancient Roman and Christian art, as they too work as mediators amongst each other; without prudence, justice cannot be practiced, and without justice, prudence may become self serving and lack moral grounding.

Fortitude

With the Mantichora constellation and the title of Flame-Mane, I think Dehya fits the descriptions for Fortitude (also referred to as Courage) all too well as well, usually depicted with or alongside a lion, armor, broken columns, swords or clubs.

Fortitude does not exist in opposition to fear, but rather moderates it lest it compromises the person's good will. As previously discussed, the Aristotelian idea of moderation (stability between two extremes, fortitude striking the balance between apprehensiveness and excessive rashness) is fundamental when conceptualizing the virtues, and also a key part of Dehya's character!

"A highly regarded warrior among the mercenary circles, Dehya is brave without being impulsive, and strong without being arrogant. Life in the harsh desert environment has allowed Dehya to accumulate much combat wisdom through various battles, and she is by no means your typical insolent and ignorant martial artist." - Dehya's official HoyoLab introduction

During the Archon quest we are presented with two groups of people opposed to each other due to the Akademiya's manipulation. The "radical" people of the desert that wanted to believe in King Deshret's resuscitation vs the Dendro Archon's followers. The truth was that these groups of people were never fundamentally opposed, but were led to believe so by those in power. Dehya was able to see through all of this and maintain a clear mind in the face of conflict, which ultimately helped the group infiltrate Sumeru, rescue Nahida and properly confront those responsible for the institution's corruption. This composure and even-mindedness is what constitutes true fortitude; Plato describes it as "wise endurance", and "knowledge on the grounds of fear and hope."

They show us a simulated example of Dehya taking the virtue to one of its extremes; feigning recklessness to deceive the Eremites, acting like one of the King Deshret's followers. Though her actions would be justified and with Cyno pointing out that she could very well defeat them should she chose to fight, she understands the bigger picture and where her combat wisdom is really needed/ how to best utilize it. This is the knowledge the characters in Plato's Complete Work discuss.

Temperance

For example, when Mr. Zubayr is angry, everyone in the theater would be walking on eggshells. But Nilou would keep a warm smile, drawing wonderful patterns one after another in the air with her arms and fingers. "Imagine that we are in the rainforest that has just rained, and that you are following me as we walk onward, saying hello to every animal that passes by, waving, leaving everything else behind..." - Nilou's Character Story 4

If the virtues can be identified as some kind of knowledge as per The Stoics and classical Philosophy propose, with Prudence being knowledge about what should be or not be done, Justice knowledge of the distribution and limits of proper value to each person, Courage of fear and hope, then Temperance is knowledge of what is to be chosen. Shaped by forgiveness and restraint, it is concerned with abstinence from non virtuous actions such as revenge, arrogance and indulgence through the cultivation of humility, modesty, calmness and self-control. It's root word in Greek, sōphrosunē (most often translated as "self-restraint") also derives from the word phronēsis (practical wisdom), putting emphasis in the action of the virtues to reveal true character. Being calm and composed is a defining trait of Nilou which fits accordingly with her being a performer! She has a couple of dialogues going over her methods for staying temperate in moments of unease.

Inayah: "I've already said that I'm not ready yet... Agh, what should I say..." Nilou: "Take it easy and relax. Deep breath, in and out. Once you've taken a long exhale, calmly tell everyone what you want to say." - Nilou's Story Quest

Art was also thought of alongside science to nurture temperance by means of their polishing. Darwin thought of it as a human ability cultivated through socializing, as it involves our relationship with others and can be measured through empathy; the Grand Bazar is referred to as a big family by Nilou, where everyone contributes to help each other. She also mediates conflicts between her parents [Character Story 1] and we see her do so on a larger scale during her Story Quest, debating the Akademiya to preserve the theatre, and showing forgiveness towards those who ignorantly opposed the arts.

[Aristotle viewed temperance in a much more restricted manner, narrowing it down to only the senses of touch and taste. Plato's notion of temperance, as well as in other religions and moreso in Eastern cultures it encompasses significantly more; forgiveness is a key matter in Christianity, in Hinduism literature we have the concept of Dama (from Sanskrit 'दम' or 'दमः', 'damah'). Temperance is also one of the key practices in Bhudhism in relation to the Eightfold Path.] The iconography for temperance is primarily a woman holding two vessels, transferring water from one to the other. It was also the virtue most often associated with the producing classes, the farmers and the craftsmen.

In the Major Arcana, Temperance is the fourteenth card whose meaning also aligns with the overview and symbols of the virtue in religion and philosophy. The female figure is usually standing with one foot on water, and it signifies the accommodation of all perspectives, taking the middle path and leveraging your skills and talents... (see Nilou's debate with the Akademiya) Nilou represents all of its attributes: chastity, humility, hospitality, forgiveness, decorum, calm deliberation. She creates harmony and cooperation, and doesn't over-indulge in any of the luxuries provided by her audience or friends at the Bazaar. · · ───────────────────── · ·

Extra juicy sources that are more general reading or couldn't be linked!: - The Cambridge Companion to Virtue Ethics (2013), by Daniel C. Russel - Nicomachean Ethics (Aristotle) - The Republic (Plato) - The Cardinal Virtues in the Middle Ages : a study in moral thought from the fourth to the fourteenth century (2011) by István Pieter Bejczy - The Fourfold Virtues of Augustine & Plato & Confucius

Winter Pyrrhus and Hermione

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Hermione is from Sparta the far south and Pyrrhus is an island baby and together neither of them are made for the winter. They've taken numerous layers and cuddled up.

i feel like every fandom needs to have that one mind reading fic wherein a character gains the ability to read someone's mind and like so much stuff is revealed in the process

and i feel like there HAS to be one for Kaveh & Alhaitham but one where only Kaveh gains said ability and Alhaitham doesn't know Kaveh has it.

so Kaveh's like: finally, i know just how badly he thinks of me. but, like, it's just 20.000 words of him trying to get Alhaitham to think a single bad thing about him and he never manages to do it. all Alhaitham thinks are just such mundane small things like "oh, i need to make a copy of that" or "what am i gonna eat today?" and when he does think of Kaveh it's just him being like "why is he mad at me?" or silly stuff like "did his fanclub make a tcg card of him yet?"

of course there's a subplot wherein Kaveh thinks Alhaitham has to know and he does a trillion tests only to find out Alhaitham really has no clue.

and then Kaveh has to face the bitter reality that he's a MASSIVE overthinker and there's a really impactful moment where he realizes Alhaitham's harshest insults only come as reactions to HIS OWN rude quips born from the assumption that Alhaitham secretly hates his guts