The Elysian Fields, or Elysium, would be closest to what most people consider "heaven" to be like. The Elysian Fields were described as a wonderful place, where everything was delightful. There were soft green meadows, lovely groves, a delicious life-giving air, sunlight that glowed a soft purple, and everyone was happy and peaceful. The sound of music played on pipes and lyres filled the air. Banquets occurred whenever the inhabitants desired.

This land was ruled by Rhadamanthys, according to Homer's Odyssey, and lay somewhere near the river Oceanus. It was a place where the great and good lived after their deaths, men such as heroes, poets, priests, and those who had helped others; a dwelling place of mortals made immortal through the favor of the gods. These fortunate ones could chose to go back to earth if they wished, but few elected to give up the pleasure they had found here.

The Titan Cronus, father of Zeus, lived in the Elysian Fields. Despite the cruelty of Cronus in his life, his status as one of the early gods guaranteed his privileged place in the Underworld. He behaved well there and did not disturb the others.

ACTIVITIES:
Elysian Fields activity

KEY TEST WORDS:
Elysian Fields, similar to "heaven," was also called the Isle of the Blessed.

The Underworld

Creatures

Footnotes:
The Elysian Fields were the final dwelling place of Aeneas' father Anchises, and Virgil gives details of it in the Aeneid.

SOURCES:
Jane Smith
Edith Hamilton's Mythology
Bulfinch's Mythology
"Manual of Mythology" by Alexander S. Murray.
Homer's Odyssey
Michael Gibson's Gods, Men and Monsters from the Greek Myths