emulates niobe nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "emulates niobe nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WEEPS: This is the most common answer, directly referencing Niobe's eternal sorrow and shedding of tears after the tragic loss of her children in Greek mythology. To 'emulate' Niobe is to cry profusely.
More About "emulates niobe nyt crossword"
The clue "emulates Niobe" draws directly from Greek mythology, requiring knowledge of the tragic figure of Niobe. Niobe was a queen of Thebes who, in her immense pride, boasted that she was superior to the goddess Leto because Niobe had fourteen children while Leto had only two (Apollo and Artemis). This hubris led to a swift and brutal divine punishment.
In retaliation for her insolence, Apollo and Artemis killed all of Niobe's children. Overwhelmed by inconsolable grief, Niobe wept without end, turning into a stone on Mount Sipylus from which tears perpetually flowed. Therefore, to "emulate Niobe" means to exhibit profound and continuous sorrow, specifically through the act of weeping.
This type of clue is common in crosswords, especially in publications like the New York Times, which often incorporate classical references and literary allusions. Recognizing such references is key to unlocking the answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Brush up on Mythology: Many crossword clues draw from Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology. Familiarize yourself with key figures, stories, and their defining characteristics or fates, as seen with Niobe.
- Consider Verbs of Action: If a clue describes someone 'emulating' or 'acting like' a figure, think about the primary action or state that character is famous for. For Niobe, it's her weeping.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue might hint at the type of answer needed (e.g., a specific historical period, a literary genre, or a particular emotional state).
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on a mythological clue, try solving intersecting words first. The letters filled in from other clues can often reveal the mythological answer, even if you don't know the legend immediately.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Niobe in Greek mythology?
Niobe was a mythical queen of Thebes who, due to her excessive pride, boasted about her numerous children compared to the goddess Leto. This angered Leto's children, Apollo and Artemis, who consequently killed all of Niobe's offspring. Overcome by grief, Niobe wept endlessly and was eventually transformed into a weeping rock.
Why is 'WEEPS' the answer to 'emulates Niobe' in crosswords?
The answer 'WEEPS' is given because Niobe's defining characteristic after her children's deaths was her perpetual and inconsolable weeping. To "emulate" someone means to imitate or act like them, so to "emulate Niobe" is to cry profusely or be in a state of deep sorrow.
How do I solve clues based on mythology or literature?
Solving such clues often requires knowledge of the core narrative or the most famous attribute of the character. Try to identify the key action, emotion, or fate associated with the mythological figure. For example, Hercules is known for his strength, Sisyphus for his futile task, and Niobe for her endless tears.