Why is Dionysus so important?

The twice-born Dionysus is technically a demigod like Heracles. Though, unlike the twelve-time laborer, his godliness is dominant over his humanity. He's considered to be one of the youngest Greek gods. So, why is he important? read more

Dionysus teaches or compels us to to become more than what we ordinarily are. read more

The festival for Dionysus was held in the spring when vines would start bearing leaves. It became one of the most important events of the year and its primary focal point was the theater. Most of the great Greek plays were initially written to be performed at the feast of Dionysus. read more

Dionysus had the power to inspire and to create ecstasy, and his cult had special importance for art and literature. Performances of tragedy and comedy in Athens were part of two festivals of Dionysus, the Lenaea and the Great (or City) Dionysia. Dionysus was also honoured in lyric poems called dithyrambs. read more