Tradition: Greek mythology
Alternative Names: Nereides, Nērēḯdes, Nērēḯs (singular)
Category: Nymph
The Myth
The Nereids were fifty sea nymphs in Greek mythology, the daughters of Nereus, known as the Old Man of the Sea, and the Oceanid Doris. They were sisters to their brother Nerites and were associated with the waters of the sea.
The Nereids often accompanied Poseidon, the god of the sea, and were sometimes depicted riding sea creatures alongside him. They were generally friendly and helpful toward sailors, offering assistance to those travelling across the waters. Among their legendary acts was helping the Argonauts during their quest for the Golden Fleece.
The Nereids were represented in ancient art as graceful sea spirits connected to the beauty and power of the ocean. Their presence in mythology reflected the many aspects of the sea, from its gentle and welcoming waters to its mysterious depths.
Sources
Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Nereids. In Wikipedia, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nereids