Tradition / Region: Greek Mythology
Alternative names: Epimeliades, Melides, Maliades, Hamamelides
Category: Nymph
The Myth
The Epimelides were graceful nymphs of meadows and pastures, charged with protecting flocks of sheep and watching over fruit trees. Their name comes from the Greek words meaning “protector” and “sheep” or “apple tree,” giving them a dual role as guardians of both herds and orchards.
These spirits were closely connected with the countryside and were often associated with mountains, forests, and streams. They were not considered a separate race of nymphs, and among their number were counted daughters of Oceanus, mountain nymphs, and even descendants of rustic gods such as Pan, Hermes, and Silenus.
One famous tale tells how a group of Epimelides came to the land of the Messapians and danced in the fields. Young shepherds abandoned their flocks and boasted that their dancing surpassed that of the nymphs. Offended by the challenge, the Epimelides accepted a contest.
The shepherds danced roughly and without skill, while the nymphs moved with unmatched beauty and grace. Defeated, the foolish youths were rebuked by the divine maidens:
“Young men, did you wish to compete with the Epimelid nymphs? Since you have been defeated, you shall be punished.”
At once the shepherds were transformed into trees. According to tradition, mournful groans can still be heard emerging from their trunks.
Because of their connection to both livestock and trees, the Epimelides were remembered as gentle but proud guardians of the countryside. Beautiful and divine, they rewarded respect but punished those who arrogantly challenged the spirits that watched over the natural world.
Sources
MITOLOGIA POPULAR CUBANA contributors. (2012, March 26). Mitologia popular cubana. Archived from the original on March 26, 2010
Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Güijes. In Wikipedia, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%BCijes