Horses are familiar animals to Japanese people, appearing in folktales and fairy tales. They are also featured in characters, and many of you might think of characters with horses or horses from old stories when asked.
Horses are not only familiar in Japan but are also prominent in overseas folklore and mythology. So, what kinds of horses appear in fairy tales and myths around the world?
Pegasus
Pegasus is a legendary creature from Greek mythology, a winged horse. Many recognize Pegasus as an elegant and beautiful flying horse. Surprisingly, Pegasus is said to be a fierce creature, and goddess Athena equipped it with harnesses to control it.
It was born from the union of Poseidon, the sea god, and Medusa, a Gorgon with snake hair. More precisely, Pegasus was born from the血 of Medusa when the hero Perseus severed her head. Its兄弟 is the giant Chrysaor.
Peagasus is also famous as a constellation, seen in the autumn sky from September to November, so be sure to enjoy stargazing.
Unicorn
The unicorn is a legendary creature from Greek mythology with a horse’s body, a deer’s head, elephant legs, and a pig’s tail. Like Pegasus, it is often used as a character, making it cute and popular, but it is also described as a fierce unicorn.
The unicorn’s horn is said to have detoxifying powers, and in Europe, it was used mainly by kings and nobility for ailments. Even in Japan, records show it was used as medicine during the Edo period.
Curious about where unicorns come from and how long they have existed? The earliest depiction of a unicorn dates back to around the 4th century BCE, found in India, where a wild donkey was shown with a horn. At that time, it wasn’t recognized as a unicorn but was treated as a wild donkey with a horn, resembling the mythical creature.
Centaur
The centaur is a mythological creature from Greek mythology characterized by a human upper body and the lower body of a horse. One story suggests that it was born from the union of Hyacinth and the cloud goddess Hera, a race that also includes the king of the Lapiths, Ixion, who mated with a horse.
Fast runners and skilled archers, centaurs were powerful and formidable warriors. Though generally gentle in nature, their appearance has led to them often being called monsters. Some stories say they struggled with their identity, unsure whether they should live as humans or horses and faced difficult choices about their burial rites.
After their death, some say there was confusion over whether their remains should be treated as human or horse, highlighting their ambiguous nature.
Why are horses such a popular motif?
This article introduced the three most well-known mythical horses: Pegasus, Unicorn, and Centaur, but many other horses also appear in fairy tales and mythology.
The widespread use of horses in characters, design, and movies, not only in fairy tales and mythology, suggests how familiar and beloved horses are to us. Their gentle faces and beautiful appearances surely attract many.
In Japan, unicorn motifs have been immensely popular among children, especially girls, over the past 5-6 years. Many enjoy unicorn-themed stationery, plush toys, clothing, and more. Unicorns are also seen as symbols of hope and the future in spiritual contexts.
Although the depiction of horses has evolved over time, humans have always lived alongside horses, and they are inseparable and cherished companions.
Summary
What did you think?
Just like real horses, the mythical horses in folklore and mythology are loved and preserved in stories. Even for those unfamiliar with their details, the names Pegasus, Unicorn, and Centaur are recognizable, and most can imagine their appearance.
This is because they are widely used in characters, designs, and movies, especially in the case of Pegasus and Unicorn, which continue to be beloved by children.
Exploring the mythical horses from fairy tales and mythology may be an enjoyable activity. Please take the time to learn about their origins and characteristics through written stories.