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Mythology
Mermaid Mythology
The nearly universal appearance of half-human, half-fish beings across the mythologies of the world - from Mesopotamian gods to Caribbean sirens.
Era: Ancient Region: Global
📖 Overview
Mermaids appear across cultures: Atargatis in ancient Syria (first known depiction, 1000 BC), Sirens in Greek mythology, Selkies in Celtic tradition, Mami Wata across West Africa and the African diaspora, Ningyo in Japan. The recurring image suggests deep human fascination with the boundary between our world and the sea - and possibly rare sightings of dugongs and manatees.