The bottom star, Pollux, is slightly brighter. Look for two stars, spaced about two finger widths apart. As a zodiac constellation, it is found along the ecliptic (an imaginary line that marks the path of the sun, moon, planets, and zodiac constellations). The constellation represents the twins Castor and Pollux (Polydeuces), also known as the Dioscuri in ancient times, in Greek mythology. Throughout January and February, the Gemini constellation can be found rising in the southeast. Can you imagine offering to give up a lifetime of good living in Mount Olympus to spend half your time in the dark underworld, just so that can spend more time with your brother? That’s love. “Half of thy time beneath the earth and halfĬastor and Pollux were never separated again, dwelling one day in Hades and the next day in Mount Olympus. It was one of the 48 constellations described by the 2nd century AD astronomer. Zeus took pity on Pollux and allowed him to share his life with Castor, spending Gemini constellation Gemini is one of the constellations of the zodiac. So much, in fact, that when poor, mortal Castor was killed, his immortal brother Pollux begged to die also. (Fun fact – Helen was also born out of the Leda & Zeus tryst, causing her to share immortality with her brother Pollux).Ĭastor and Pollux were bound very closely they admired and loved each other very much. They participated in the epic Calydonian boar hunt, they joined Jason on the Quest for the Golden Fleece, and they even rescued Helen of Troy when Theseus carried her off. Although technically only half brothers (and one of them immortal at that), Castor and Pollux were known for sharing many adventures together. Castor was born to the mortal King Tyndareus, while Pollux was born after Leda’s tryst with Zeus (The Lord of the Sky in Greek Mythology). The constellation Gemini is known as “The Twins,” and is composed of two bright stars representing two young brothers – Castor and Pollux.Īccording to Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes, by Edith Hamilton, Castor and Pollux were both born to the same mother, Leda, who was the Queen of Sparta. One of the winter constellations that is visible in the February night skies is Gemini, which symbolizes a brotherly love so strong that it was rewarded with immortality in the stars. Although many brothers and sisters squabble and fight through the years, their strong family ties usually keep them close. A particularly binding love is that of the love we share in our families – specifically with our siblings. Although romantic love is the focus this time of year, with red and pink hearts everywhere you look, let’s not forget that love takes many forms. With Valentines Day right around the corner, love is in the air.
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