Note 1043 — ANTIENT HEROES.

I have shewn, that Colonies from [1043]Egypt settled in the region of Sethon, called afterwards Sethonia, upon the river Palæstinus. They were likewise to be found in the countries of Edonia, Pieria, and Peonia: in one of which they founded a city and temple. The Grecians called this city Orpheus: [1044]Ορφευς εστι πολις υπο τῃ Πιεριῃ. Orpheus is a city of Thrace, below Pieria. But the place was originally expressed Orphi, by which is meant the oracular temple of Orus. From hence, and from the worship here instituted, the people were styled Orphites, and Orpheans. They were noted for the Cabiritic mysteries; and for the Dionusiaca, and worship of Damater. They were likewise very famous for the medicinal arts; and for their skill in astronomy and music. But the Grecians have comprehended, under the character of one person, the history of a people. When they settled in Thrace, they introduced their arts, and their worship, among the barbarous [1045]natives, by whom they were revered for their superior knowledge. They likewise bequeathed many memorials of themselves, and of their forefathers, which were probably some emblematical sculptures upon wood or stone: hence we read of the tablets of Orpheus preserved in Thrace, and particularly upon mount [1046]Hæmus. The temple which they built upon this mountain seems to have been a college, and to have consisted of a society of priests. They were much addicted to celibacy, as we may judge from their history; and were, in great measure, recluses after the mode of Egypt and Canaan. Hence it is said of Orpheus, that he secreted himself from the world, and led the life of a [1047]Swan: and it is moreover mentioned of Aristæus, when he made a visit to Dionusus upon mount Hæmus, that he disappeared from the sight of men, and was never after [1048]seen. According to the most common accounts concerning the death of Orpheus, it was owing to his principles, and manner of life. He was a solitary, and refused all commerce with womankind: hence the Mænades, and other women of Thrace, rose upon him, and tore him to pieces. It is said, that his head, and lyre were thrown into the Hebrus; down which they were wafted to Lemnos. What is here mentioned of Orpheus, undoubtedly relates to the Orpheans, and to their temple upon mount Hæmus. This temple was in process of time ruined: and there is great reason to think, that it was demolished upon account of the cruelties practised by the priests, and probably from a detestation of their unnatural crimes, to which there are frequent allusions. Ovid having given a character of Orpheus, concludes with an accusation to this purpose.