The bear mythology: an enduring archetypical tale of feminine empowerment, adulthood and motherhood

Abstract

The relation of bear mythology with the transformation of girls into women, as well as the connection and involvement of Artemis and bears with the beginning of woman’s adulthood and motherhood is considered. Particular attention is paid to the worship of Artemis Brauronia and to rituals like the Arkteia rite. Finally, the connection of bear mythology and customs and beliefs from ancient Greece and the film Brave (2012) is discussed.