The Greek Myth of Demeter and Persephone Reinterpreted

"While researching for my Ph.D., I decided to delve into Greek mythology to determine whether I could find a story that could illuminate my understanding of mothering and my interest in maternal ambivalence. I discovered the myth of Demeter and Persephone, which, while thousands of years old, demonstrates how a mythical mother, Demeter, the goddess of the harvest, weathers changes and obstacles"

"In this vein, Demeter and Persephone's story has helped me to refine and bolster my understanding of mothering and maternal ambivalence. The myth has inspired me to take core elements of the story, in particular the mother's struggle with her light and dark feelings, and expand them into an understanding of how a wise mother can channel her pain and suffering into a truthful and transformed relationship with her child."

The myth of Demeter and Persephone portrays a mother's search for and reunion with her daughter, symbolizing maternal trauma and loss. Myths act as generational stories that are adapted and retold, allowing narrators and listeners to ascribe personal meaning. The myth highlights maternal ambivalence through Demeter's light and dark feelings and demonstrates how a wise mother can channel pain into a transformed relationship. Persephone's abduction and Demeter's frantic search exemplify the push and pull of mother–child relationships. As children mature, mothers must adapt expectations and continually renegotiate closeness and connection.

Read at Psychology Today