What is the mythological origin of the 'river of forgetfulness'?

The 'river of forgetfulness' originates from ancient Greek mythology. It is known as the River Lethe, one of the five rivers of Hades, the underworld. Souls were said to drink from its waters to forget their mortal lives before reincarnation or entering the afterlife.

Are there other rivers in Greek mythology often featured in crosswords?

Yes, other famous rivers from Greek mythology that frequently appear in crosswords include the River Styx (river of hate, boundary of the underworld), Acheron (river of woe), Cocytus (river of wailing), and Phlegethon (river of fire).

How can mythological clues help me solve crosswords?

Mythological clues often have very specific answers, making them valuable anchor points. Learning common figures, places, and concepts from Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology can significantly improve your ability to solve puzzles, as these themes frequently recur.

river of forgetfulness crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "river of forgetfulness crossword", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find the most accurate and commonly accepted answers, along with explanations to help you understand the context and excel in your puzzles.

Solutions for "river of forgetfulness crossword" by Letter Count

5 Letters

LETHE: The most widely recognized answer, referring to the mythical river in the Greek underworld whose waters caused forgetfulness.

More About "river of forgetfulness crossword"

The clue "river of forgetfulness" points directly to a pivotal concept in Greek mythology: the River Lethe. Derived from the ancient Greek word for "oblivion," Lethe was one of the five rivers of the underworld, Hades. Souls of the deceased were often said to drink from its waters before being reincarnated, a ritual that would wipe away all memories of their past mortal lives.

This mythical river plays a significant role in various ancient texts, including Plato's "Republic," where it is described as a place of necessary forgetfulness before new beginnings. Its importance extends beyond mythology, permeating literature and philosophy as a symbol of amnesia, the past, and the cyclical nature of existence. Understanding such mythological references is key to mastering many crossword puzzles, as these themes are frequently used.

In modern usage, the term "Lethe" might also be used metaphorically to refer to a state of oblivion or a place where one can forget their troubles, reinforcing its association with profound forgetfulness, exactly as suggested by the crossword clue.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Embrace Mythology: Many crossword clues, like "river of forgetfulness crossword," draw heavily on mythology. Familiarize yourself with common figures, gods, places, and stories from Greek, Roman, and Norse myths.
Consider Etymology: The names in mythology often have direct meanings that relate to the clue. "Lethe," for instance, directly means "forgetfulness," which is a perfect fit.
Look for Wordplay and Puns: While not directly applicable to this clue, always be on the lookout for clever wordplay, synonyms, or homophones that can unlock a difficult clue.
Check Cross-References: Use solved intersecting words to confirm or narrow down possibilities for challenging clues. The letter count is also an invaluable hint!

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the five rivers of the underworld in Greek mythology?

The five principal rivers of the Greek underworld are the Styx (river of hate), Acheron (river of woe), Cocytus (river of wailing), Phlegethon (river of fire), and Lethe (river of forgetfulness).

Is there a connection between Lethe and the concept of "oblivion"?

Absolutely. The word "Lethe" itself comes from the ancient Greek word for "oblivion" or "forgetfulness" (λήθη). So, the river is intrinsically linked to the concept of forgetting and being forgotten.

How do I handle clues that reference ancient history or literature?

These clues often require specific knowledge, but common themes and figures reappear. Try recalling famous epic poems, philosophical works, or historical events from the period. Sometimes, a quick search for the key terms in the clue can lead you to the answer if you're stuck.