Today’s topic is what do I consider to be the worst misconception about Demeter. The .gif file that is featured with this blog post illustrates it while still being a very good representation of Her.

Demeter is thought as being a goddess of agricultural endeavors, but especially of grain. The misconception is that this is her ONLY focus. Yes, agriculture is an important factor in civilization, but as one of the focal goddesses of the Eleusinian Mysteries we see that agriculture is only one aspect of her.

Agriculture is typically considered to be a peaceful pursuit, with Gods and Goddesses associated with it being looked at as peaceful deities. Demeter, however, is not solely a peaceful Goddess as she took up a sword during the war against the Giants. She is very willing to defend what she nurtures.