Protector of Women & Children.
Our modern day re-envisioning of Melusine embodies her fierce protective nature and encompasses her innate compassion. There are many legends and lore surrounding water-faring female creatures. Many depictions maligned for fear of any women in positions of power. Often, in attempts to quell and dissuade other females from embracing their own power, stories morphed to warnings of punishing scenarios to any woman who’d dare seek their own autonomy.
Medieval European folklore tells the story of a young human/fairy girl called Mélusine (Mel-ew-seen) who was cursed to transform each Saturday into a mermaid or female water spirit. She appeared human from head to torso and two fish tails for legs. Melusine is sometimes also depicted with wings. This is said to be a punishment bequeath to her by her mother as a result of Melusine taking action against her violent father.
Melusine’s transformation represents the unification of the natural and supernatural worlds, earth and water or of opposites, enlightenment and of the world soul. She is also known as a prepatriarchal aquatic goddess.
Melusine wears a key necklace around her neck. She can swim in salt and fresh water, oceans, lakes, rivers. As our vision for Melusine’s Haven emerges, we envision havens nestled by beautiful lakes and oceans.
For more interesting information on the myths of Melusine, visit:
The Tale of Mélusine – European studies blog
Melusine – World History Encyclopedia
