Category Archives: Immortality

The fundamental beliefs of ancient cultures from around the world contain tales of dauntlessness and gallantry. These tales have been passed down to generations to keep the stories of the gods and goddesses alive. While it is true that most gods were known for certain roles, they often performed a variety of interconnected duties. In addition to being gods of war, they might have been associated with strategy, power, wisdom and protection.

Stories narrate that various gods were involved in battles of supremacy, and though immortal, they were still susceptible to injury and defeat. Mythical accounts reveal how the defeated gods and goddesses would be imprisoned or kicked out from the gods province. Despite their power and immortality, defeated gods were seen as powerless and often banished from the divine realm.

Ares is a god of war in Greek mythology and was often referred to as the spirit of war. He was not as popular as the Roman god of war, Mars, and his worship was not extensive. Ares represented distasteful characteristics such as slaughter and brutality. During combat, he was always accompanied by his sister Eris and two sons. Other gods, including his parents, did not like him even though he was an Olympian deity. The only gods who associated themselves with him were Enyalius and Enyo, who had less power than Ares.

The worship of Ares had many interesting local features that were devoid of moral, theological, and social associations. In early times, prisoners of war were sacrificed to him and other unusual sacrificial beings like dogs. During his worship at Geronthrae, women were forbidden from entering the sacred grove, while in Tegea, extraordinary womens sacrifices were allowed.

Montu, otherwise known as Mentu or Monthu, was an ancient Egyptian god worshipped by the 4th Upper Egyptian province. His sacrificial animals included bulls and falcons and were presented as a man in a falcons head. It is believed that Montu also symbolized the Kingship for Upper Egypt and his counterpart Atum the Lower Egypt. He was initially viewed as an extension or part of the sun god, and at times, he was associated with Hor.

In ancient Egyptian mythology, he represented the scorching effect of the sun. From this characteristic, he was named the god of war and a mighty warrior. Egyptians believed that he fought against enemies of the cosmic order and inspired other warriors amongst his people.

One of the most famous gods among the Japanese was Hachiman, the patron god of the Minamoto clan and all warriors. Hachiman was frequently referred to as the god of war and the adoration of the 15th Japanese emperor. He is rarely worshiped alone as most of the shrines dedicated to him are also used to worship two other gods; Jingo, his mother, and the goddess Hime-gami. The most ancient shrine used in his worship was built in 725 A.D and is among the few single shrines. Hachiman is vastly popular all over Japan, explaining why half of the Shinto shrines are dedicated to him. Additionally, Hachiman was the first Japanese god to be entitled Daibosatsu, meaning a great Buddha to be. He signifies the blending and working together of foreign and indigenous elements.

Hachiman is also worshipped as the divine protector of the Japanese, Japan and the Imperial house. As a result, he is still actively worshipped today in most parts of Japan. He is considered among the most ancient, most trusted and most loved Emperors of Japan (Ojin).

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3 brutal gods of war from cultures around the world - We Are The Mighty

Deaths Gambit: Afterlife Review

Sometimes, when a game doesnt make quite as big a splash as it could have, the developers just shrug and move on with their lives. Other times, they take criticism as a challenge and come up with a DLC or expanded version specifically to address those issues. Deaths Gambit: Afterlife is publisher White Rabbits response to criticisms of the original release of Deaths Gambit, and through that lens, its quite the triumph. The developers use mechanical overhauls, an expanded world, and a wealth of towering foes to tell the tale of Siradona story of decay, corruption, and the terrible cost of immortality.

Deaths Gambit: Afterlife takes heavy inspiration from Dark Souls and From Softwares other Soulsborne titles in terms of story as well as mechanics. It tells the tale of Sorun, a knight of Vados sent to claim the secret of immortality from Siradon. After the whole expedition was wiped out without even setting foot in the city of Aldwynn, Death himself makes a deal with Sorun: Sorun will revive endlessly, just as his immortal foes do, but in exchange, Sorun must agree to destroy the source of immortality outright. How will Sorun achieve his goal? A lot of trial and error, mostly, and you know what that means. Time to die, die again.

Story breadcrumbs are delivered through conversations with NPCs and foes as well as environmental design, item descriptions, and Journals of the Immortals dedicated to each boss. I really enjoyed how the Journals play out: as you explore an area, you find books filled with ominous lore about that locations boss. The Journals provide information about the bosss backstory and move set as well as providing some stat bonuses against it. The backstories are as tragic or horrifying as the lush but grotesque pixel art boss designs, and they help set the mood for a given area. On the other hand, the stat bonuses and descriptions of the move sets are very useful when planning your assault on a boss.

As I advanced deeper and deeper into the citadel, I found myself increasingly impressed with its melancholy mood. The pixel art graphics combine with some really beautiful spritework to build a mood that ranges from dream-like to nightmarish, especially once the true horrors permitted by this games take on immortality become clear. Just about everyone in this game may be immortal, but that only means there is no escape from what their world has become. Excellent voice acting sets the mood for a grim fantasy adventure, and a gorgeous orchestral soundtrack made the pain and struggle feel more than worth it. This isnt the kind of dark fantasy youll find in grittier games like Dragons Age. Deaths Gambit: Afterlife presents its players with a more poetic brand of grimness. In some ways, it feels almost like a fairy tale, albeit a fairy tale twisted in on itself.

Deaths Gambit: Afterlife is every bit as hard and grueling as youd expect a Soulslike to be, but the added Metroidvania elements serve to expand its reach and impact, especially now that the movement mechanics have been expanded and revamped. After the initial introductory level, Sorun can wander in pretty much any direction from the hub area of Sanctuary, encountering new threats and puzzles as he goes. Mastering the combat system will allow you to access new areas and unlock previously sealed doors. This may sound like simple Metroidvania, but trust me, the stakes are much higher when even basic enemies could kill you in about four hits if you let your guard down.

Pretty much every aspect of the game was overhauled according to player feedback and it really shows. The result is an expanded world full of lush detail and packed full of mini-bosses. Depending on your class and skill level, the game will range from slow-moving and strategic to a fast-paced hack and slash experience. I kept encountering new mechanics and tips well into my first run, which made it feel like the game was constantly changing and expanding to keep up with my progress. That said, Im not a big fan of the fast travel mechanic being linked to a consumable item. It may fit the games oppressive and melancholy mood, but Im the type who hoards consumables, which meant I did a lot of walking.

Deaths Gambit: Afterlife puts as much focus on exploration and finding new ways to traverse levels as it does on combat and difficult boss fights. There are also a number of environmental threats to deal with, ranging from basic spikes and poisonous plants to fire-breathing dragons and background towers that shoot lasers at you. I found myself having more trouble with these environmental threats than I did some boss fights: it took me two tries to get past The Bulwark of Aldwynn and about four to sprint across one very specific stretch of rooftop.

All in all, Deaths Gambit: Afterlife is a tough but rewarding exploration of a grim fantasy world populated by ruthless immortals, mindless constructs, and weary civilians whose lives have been horrifically twisted by forces beyond their control. The revamped movement options made traversing the expanded world a treat, though I wouldve liked a fast travel system that didnt clash with my hoarding instincts. If you like Metroidvanias and Soulslikes and always wanted to know what it would be like if the two genres fused, then Deaths Gambit: Afterlife is for you.

***PC game code provided by the publisher***

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Death's Gambit: Afterlife Review - The High Cost of Immortal Living - COGconnected

I say: who wants to live forever? You say ...

Who dares to love forever, ooh, when love must die ... My favourite Queen song, after Under Pressure.

Wrong answer. It's Jeff Bezos. The Amazon boss has invested heavily in research to reverse the ageing process.

Or Google cofounder Larry Page, who funds a "longevity lab".

Or Larry Ellison, Peter Thiel, Mark Zuckerberg and multiple Silicon Valley billionaires throwing coin at life-extending studies.

Unless "achieve immortality" is on your to-do list, you're no tech tycoon.

The rich and powerful have attempted to dodge death since time began.

And as none of them are still around, we know how that always ends.

True, but we might at least be able to extend our longevity.

No time to die, hey? Very right-now, very Bond. What's the buzz?

A new French study has revealed we stop ageing after we reach 105 years old.

Of course we do. It's called dying.

Not for everyone. The researchers studied 10,000 people aged over 105 and concluded our risk of death becomes fixed after that age.

These "supercentenarians" have effectively stopped the clock.

I'd be more excited if we stopped it half a century earlier, when my pores were still tight.

That's the goal. Immortality believers see ageing as a curable illness.

And the search for remedies is leading down a maze of rabbit holes: parabiosis, the creepily vampiric theory of youthful blood's rejuvenating effects; switching on genes to create new stem cells, and the secrets of long-lived animals.

For example, did you know that clams don't age?

You could eat a clam predating your great, great grandmother.

Suddenly the idea of chowder seems obscene. Is that why they say "happy as a clam?"

Aha! There's the existential question: would immortality actually be fun?

Maybe only if you're Jeff Bezos, with enough money for a few millennia. It's all about quality of life, right?

That's where the supercentenarians come in.

These golden oldies enjoy astonishingly rude health.

Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122, took up fencing at 85, was still cycling at 100 and finally quit smoking at a sprightly 117.

Scientists believe there's something extra-resilient about the supercentenarian immune system that might hold the key to an enhanced "healthspan" as well as lifespan.

Coming soon on Amazon Prime, no doubt.

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Searching for the elusive key to eternal life - Northern Beaches Review

Disneys 1997 animated feature, Hercules, is arguably one of the entertainment giants most underrated movies. The film tells the tale of the half-mortal Greek god Hercules. Born as a god, Hercules loses his power thanks to Zeus evil brother, Hades, who commissions his minions Pain and Panic to kill Hercules so that he may gain control of Mount Olympus.

The two henchmen fail, but although Hercules doesnt die, he loses his immortality. Zeus tells his son he must perform a true act of heroism to restore his godhood. After engaging in various heroic deeds, Hercules still doesnt regain immortality until he selflessly jumps into the River Styx to save the Theban princess Megaras soul.

The movie fell short of box office expectations but remains a favorite among diehard Disney fans. The star-studded cast has undoubtedly helped the film retain its following. So, who are the voices behind the characters in Disneys Hercules?

Donovan is known for his roles in Friends, Mister Sterling, and No Ordinary Family. When he voiced Hercules for Disney in the 90s, the actor hadnt done any voice work. The films supervising director liked Donovans charming and innocent personality and thought he was the best person to voice the strong yet naive character, IMDb reports.

Actor Josh Keaton (Voltron: Legendary Defender) voiced the teenage Hercules, and Roger Bart (The Stepford Wives) provided the title characters singing voice.

DeVitos character, Phil, trains Hercules to help him find his inner strength to regain his godhood. When creating the character, animators took inspiration from Snow Whites Grumpy and Fantasias Bacchus and used DeVitos different mouth shapes to bring Phil to life.

DeVito is best known for his role on the late-70s/early-80s TV show Taxi, which earned him a Golden Globe and several nominations. He has also appeared in several movies, such as Jumanji and Matilda, and currently plays Frank Reynolds in the sitcom Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia.

When Disney Imagineers were creating Hades, they envisioned a villain who spoke menacingly slow. However, when Hollywood star James Woods stepped into the scene, his fast-paced talking style stole hearts, and producers changed Hades into a car salesman-like villain.

Woods boasts an extensive career that spans decades. He has appeared in various hit projects, including The Virgin Suicides, True Crime, Salvador, and Promise. He also played himself in the animated TV series The Simpsons and Family Guy

Megara is the beautiful, sarcastic damsel commissioned to help kill Hercules but ends up falling in love with the strong god. The two form a close bond, and through her death, Hercules regains his immortality.

Actor Susan Egan has an extensive body of work on Broadway, where she has played Disney princesses such as Belle in the stage production of Beauty and the Beast.

Eggar and Torn lent their voices for the roles of Hercules immortal parents, Hera and Zeus.

Eggar has appeared in The Collector, The Walking Stick, and Walk, Dont Run. And Torn is famous for playing the Boss in Men in Black, OCP CEO in Robocop, and the naval officer in Down Periscope.

Hades henchmen Pain and Panic were played respectively by Bobcat Goldthwait and Matt Frewer.

Goldthwait is known for his stand-up comedy. He also appeared in One Crazy Summer and Burglar. And Frewer is best known for his roles in the films Honey I Shrunk The Kids and Watchmen and the 80s TV show Max Headroom.

Carole Shelley (Cabaret), Amanda Plummer (Pulp Fiction), and Paddy Edwards (Ghostbusters) played the three Fates Lachesis, Clotho, and Atropos. They predicted Hades failure in conquering Mount Olympus.

And last, Hal Holbrook (That Certain Summer) and Barbara Barrie (The Crucible) voiced Hercules parents, Amphitryon and Alcmene.

RELATED: Who Are the Voices Behind Disneys The Little Mermaid?

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Who Are the Voices Behind the Characters in Disney's 'Hercules'? - Showbiz Cheat Sheet

The Maha Sashti day in the Hindu month of Ashwin marks the beginning of Durga Puja celebrations in large parts of India, especially West Bengal. Whilst the festivities begin when the Goddess descends on earth on Mahalaya, which was on October 6 this year, Durga Puja, or Pujo as its known in Bengal starts today. Beautiful idols of the goddess adorned with jewellery and colourful sarees are installed in pandals and worshipped with devotion and fervour. Idols often take a topical flavour with sculptors exhibiting their creativity as they create idols of Maa Durga.

The story goes that the demon Mahishasura had gained the boon of immortality from Lord Brahma, that no man or God could kill him. He then started harassing all the three worlds. The demigods all raced to the Trimurti of Brahma-Vishnu-Mahesh, who combined their energies to manifest the Goddess Durga gifted her their individual weapons to slay Mahishasura. Metaphorically, Mahishasura represents the tamas, or sloth and the other shadow aspects that all of us have to deal with and overcome to make spiritual progress in life.

The ceremonies begin with Bodhon Puja, which is the invocation of the Goddess, and the original Bodhon Puja was supposed to have been performed by Lord Rama before crossing over to Lanka. The Saptami day sees the Nabapatrika Snan, in which the leaves from 8 other trees are tied to a banana leaf, signifying the wife of Lord Ganesha, who is taken to a nearby pond or river for a bath, in a grand procession. On the Ashtami, Kumari Puja is performed, which involves worshipping a young girl as a form of the goddess.

At the end of Ashtami, the Sandhi Puja is also performed by lightning 108 lamps to mark the emergence of the goddess ferocious Chamunda form, which she assumed to kill the demons, Chanda and Munda. The famous Dhunuchi Nach, which combines skill and beauty, as dancers hold clay pots filled with burning charcoal, coconut husks and camphor, is usually performed after the aarti on the Ashtami and Navami.

The celebration reaches a crescendo on the Dashami day, or Bijoya, when Ma Durga slayed Mahishasura, earning her the moniker Mahishasuramardini. As the goddess begins her journey back home to Mount Kailash, she is sent off with great pomp and glory before visarjan (immersion) in the holy Ganges. Married women usually indulge in the sindur khela, a riot of colour, where they apply vermillion to each other and exchange sweets and greetings for a joyous year ahead until it is time to welcome the goddess once again!

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The essence of Durga Puja and its rituals - Free Press Journal

Any time that a new Marvel Studios movie opens in theaters, fans whove remained amazed by the studios ability to tell an intersected story wonder if and how the next picture fits into the grand scheme of the MCU. Black Widow, for example, was a prequel that arrived after Captain America: Civil War, so Natasha was on the run, having helped Steve (Chris Evans) and Bucky (Sebastian Stan) escape Germany.

But where does Eternals fit on the MCU timeline? And why didnt the Eternals, who have been on our planet for 7,000 years, interfere? The most recent Eternals trailer explained that the heroes were told to only intervene with threats if they are created by the Deviants. And during CinemaBlends trip to the set of Chloe Zhaos Eternals, producer Nate Moore elaborated:

Yeah, they don't directly affect it. Although the Eternals are quite aware of what happened in Endgame, and what happened with Thanos. And you get to hear their opinion about what happened, and why maybe they didn't get involved. So it is both in a post-Endgame world, but isn't a direct line, as far as storytelling.

When asked if Eternals will include the requisite number of MCU Easter Eggs that fans have come to expect, Moore dialed back expectations a tad, comparing this new film to fellow Phase Four movie Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, which worked best as a standalone tale in an unexplored corner of the Marvel Universe. Moore said:

I think this is somewhat like -- to some degree, Doctor Strange or Black Panther, where we felt like there was enough story that it could be a contained universe, at first. We definitely have ideas of how things can crossover later. But this movie, again, with 10 characters and Dane Whitman, and the Celestials, and the Deviants, there was enough for us to play with.

More than anything, Moore says that Eternals will continue the MCU push in Phase Four to experiment in genres that they havent dabbled in yet. Said Moore:

(We get) to deal with immortality which, I think, is sort of a fun topic to deal with, but also doing a more hard sci-fi movie, frankly, was something we really hadn't tackled. (We wanted) to do something that didn't feel necessarily like a superhero movie. It's definitely a comic book movie. It's an action movie. But it didn't feel like a superhero movie. It seemed to us like a good palate cleanser and a good restart as we looked at what was post-Avengers.

The theme of Phase Four, in this infancy, is that the movies will not connect into a tapestry the way that the MCU did in the first three phases. Black Widow was a standalone. Shang-Chi largely was a standalone. This may all change when Spider-Man: No Way Home leads into Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, but until then, Eternals will continue the streak of disconnected (for the most part) MCU stories as Phase Four rolls along.

Look for more stories from our Eternals set visit this week. And look for Eternals in theaters on November 5.

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How Eternals Connects To Avengers: Endgame And Other MCU Phase 4 Projects - CinemaBlend

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New Delhi: Divyansh is now with us through the blaze. Earlier the journey was about pain but now its an asset for us, said Nidhi Poddar, author of Blaze: A Sons Trial by Fire, during the release of the book at an event in New Delhi.

Through the book and my journey I have come to know that if you share your pain with the world, it gets shared and becomes everyones, Nidhi added.

Blaze: A Sons Trial by Fire is the story of Divyansh Atman and his familys journey after he was diagnosed with blood cancer. Divyansh died in 2019 at the age of 22 after fighting blood cancer for 10 years.

The books authors, Nidhi Poddar and Sushil Poddar, are Divyanshs parents.

During the release of the book, Sushil said the journey involving the writing of the book enabled him to understand his son better. It was as if I have done a PhD on my own son, he said.

Sushil also said the story of his son has helped him witness the purity and pristine nature of motherhood along with its divinity.

The story of my Divyansh has enabled me to learn more and more about my marriage and the conjugal nature of this relationship, he said.

The book has been published by Rupa Publications.

Shekhar Gupta, Padma Bhusan awardee and Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ThePrint, and Paresh Maity, Padma Shri recipient, were guests of honour at the event.

While Maity drew a live painting of the cover of the book during its release, Gupta hoped that the book not just witnesses many more prints but also gets published in other languages so that more and more people can read it.

This book is not a legacy he (Divyansh) has left behind. The legacy he has left behind are these parents, because look at the time, affection they have committed to it. They have brought their son to immortality with this book, Gupta said.

Rudra Sharma, Senior Commissioning Editor, Rupa Publications, said, The book has been a success even from the commercial point of view as it has entered into the third print run since it was first printed and has been in print for one and a half months now. It has also got a lot of attention in countries like the USA, UK and Israel- where Divyansh was for his treatment. The story of Divyansh should never go out of print.

One of the readers of the book, Nitin Khanna, who was present at the event said, Blaze is all about when we look the pain in naked rawness and then we transcend.

Also read: Going to school after cancer treatment My sons brave journey

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The book helped me understand my son better, says author of Blaze: A Sons Trial by Fire - ThePrint

Reminiscent of his 2013 World Title just four weeks after breaking his ankle and having surgery, Burroughs again proved hes one of the toughest athletes around as he won his sixth World or Olympic Gold Medal and ninth World/Olympic medal overall.

Many (myself included) talked about Burroughs injury that he sustained at the end of the World Team Trials a month ago, but it didnt seem to affect him much this weekend. But it turns out that Burroughs had suffered a torn calf muscle against Alex Dieringer in the World Team Trials finals.

In fact, Burroughs has been in nine medal matches in his career and is undefeated while a medal has been on the line.

With six gold medals, Burroughs ties the great John Smith for career gold medals and solidified himself as the greatest USA wrestler of all time.

Burroughs started things off with a quick 10-0 win by technical superiority in just 1:14 over Canadas Samuel Barmish for his 200th career senior-level win.

After a win via injury forfeit in the next round, Burroughs took on Russias Radik ValievA in the quarterfinal round. ValievA took an early 2-0 lead over Burroughs. Burroughs then scored two push-outs while ValievA scored one. Burroughs trailed 3-2 at the break.

In the second period, Burroughs forced two more step-outs to go up 4-3 before blasting through ValievA for one of his patented double-leg takedowns, putting ValievA from his feet to back for four points and a commanding 8-3 lead.

Burroughs then got a point on a lost Russian challenge before giving up a last-second desperation step-out on his way to a 9-4 win and a trip to the semis.

In the semis, Burroughs fell behind 1-0 to Japans Ryuki Yoshida before scoring a push-out and a takedown to lead the match 3-1 at the break.

In the second period, Burroughs scored a push-out, two takedowns and a turn to get the 10-1 win.

In the final against Irans Mohammad Nokhodilarimi, Burroughs took a 1-0 lead in the first period when Nokhodilarimi was put on the activity clock and failed to score.

In the second period, Burroughs iced the match with two more blast double-leg takedowns before giving up a point on a hands-to-the-face call. Burroughs secured an easy 5-1 win for his first gold medal at 79 kg after a career at 74 kg.

Burroughs is undoubtedly the American GOAT.

Former Husker James Green also competed for Team USA at the World Championships. Representing America for the sixth time at 70 kg, Green failed to bring home a medal.

Green made quick work of South Koreas Seungchut Lee 10-0 in the first round before taking on Shamil Ustaev of Georgia in the pre-quarters.

Against Ustaev, Green was again unblemished as he won a second straight match 10-0 via technical superiority.

In the quarterfinal round, Green faced Azerbaijans Turan Bayramov. Green went up 1-0 early before giving up a takedown and a gut-wrench turn, falling behind 4-1.

Late in the second period, Green went for a shot but Bayramov countered for a takedown of his own to go up 6-1. Up against it, Green was able to blow through Bayramov for a 4-point takedown. Down just 6-5, Green spent the last 10 seconds desperately going for a takedown, but Bayramov was able to fend off the attacks.

Bayramov then fell in the semifinal round, meaning Greens tournament was over. If Bayramov would have made it to the final, Green would have been been in the repichage, which is basically the consolation bracket, and would have had a chance for a bronze medal.

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Burroughs Overcomes Injury to Reach Wrestling Immortality - Corn Nation

Marvels Eternals tells the story of ancient aliens with extraordinary powers. Part of the Marvel Cinematic Universes Phase 4, Eternals releasing on November 5, brings a new superhero team to life. But it also gives life to modern representations of mythological figures. Mythology has long been a part of our existence, created to answer humanitys scientific and spiritual questions. In todays world, we have our modern myths, such as the tales of the MCU. But the earliest stories still enchant us.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has brought its fair share of mythology to life already. The Thor films are direct reinterpretations of Norse myths. Thor, Odin, Loki, Hel (a.k.a. Hela), and the rest all weave into Marvels world. In Eternals, we can expect more of the same, although with a twist.

In some cases, in Eternals comics, these aliens are responsible for the in-universe versions of their inspirations. How is that for Myth-ception? The gods of mythology inspire the Eternals, and the Eternals create the gods of mythology in their own fictional world.

In most cases, the correlation between a mythological figure and an Eternal seems obvious. But in others, the connection reads murkier. Each Eternals mythological counterpart offers us clues about possible storylines and fates. This article examines the central figures from Novembers Eternals.

Here is every Eternals character and their basis in mythology:

Makkari, a.k.a. Mercury / Ikaris, a.k.a. Icarus / Sersi, a.k.a. Circe / Thena, a.k.a. Athena / Ajak, a.k.a. Ajax / Ajak Also Relates to Quetzalcoatl / Gilgamesh , a.k.a. Gilgamesh / Kro, a.k.a. Cronus / Phastos, a.k.a. Hesphastus / Sprite, a.k.a. Puck and Other Fairies / Kingo Could Be Kingu /Druigs Counterpart May Lie In Slavic Mythology

Marvel Studios/Smithsonian

Makkari, played by Lauren Ridloff, is based on Mercury from Roman mythology. Though Makkari has an Eternals standard immortality, the character also possesses superhuman speed. Makkari is the fastest Eternal in existence. Additionally, Makkari can think preternaturally fast, allowing her to read and process information rapidly.

This speedy boost makes much sense when it comes to Makkaris mythological counterpart, Mercury. In Roman mythology, Mercury is the god of travelers and merchants. He is associated with Greek mythologys Hermes, a god known for being fleet of foot. Hermes winged sandals are iconic. Mercury also acts as a bridge between gods and mortals, often serving as a mediator of sorts. Could Makkari be the person who unites the Eternals and the MCUs more earthly heroes? Mythology says yes. Makkaris quick thinking and vast array of knowledge will surely come in handy in this role.

Additionally, Mercury transports the souls of the dead to the underworld. Were not sure how that could impact Eternals, but the MCU has played with notions of the afterlife. Possibly, the MCUs multiverse contains it. We wonder if Makkari connects to this realm somehow.

Finally, Mercury and Hermes are both gods of tricksters, often mischievous themselves. Well have to watch out for Makkari pulling pranks.

Marvel Studios/LACMA

Ikaris, played by Richard Madden, is based on Icarus from Greek mythology. Icarus wasnt a god but a figure of myth. In Greek mythology, Icarus is best-known for flying too close to the sun. But theres more to him than that. Icarus was the son of a famous inventor, Daedalus, who built the labyrinth which housed the monstrous Minotaur of Crete.

Cretes king didnt want anyone to know how his maze worked, so he imprisoned Daedalus and Icarus in a tower. But the genius craftsman designed a way out. Daedalus built wings for himself and Icarus so they could escape. The catch? These wings were held together by wax. Famously, Daedalus warns Icarus not to fly too high nor too low. Too high and the wings would melt from the suns heat, too low, and the ocean would dampen the wings, rendering them useless.

Like some myths, this is a morality tale. It instructs listeners not to be too cocky nor complacent. Unfortunately, Icarus succumbs to hubris. He flies too close to the sun, his wings melt, and he falls to his death.

It is fitting, thus, that like Icarus, Ikaris is known to be an excellent flier. Ikaris can also levitate himself and others at speeds of 850 miles per hour. Interestingly, he can rearrange molecules of other substances. In a sense, this too fits because the pinnacle of Icarus story comes when the sun rearranges his wings molecules.

Having Icarus as a namesake is ominous for Ikaris. We hope he can balance his hubris and his humility to better effect. Perhaps this time, Icarus will fly at the right height. Or maybe hell repeat the mistakes of old

Marvel Studios/Smithsonian

Sersi, played by Gemma Chan, is based on Circe from Greek mythology. In Eternals,Sersi has a strong connection to humanity. Additionally, she and Ikaris are soulmates, and their relationship spans centuries.

In mythology, Circes story revolves less around kindness and love. Instead, Circe is a powerful sorceress. Through a combination of magic and drugs, she transforms humans into animals. When the hero Odysseus finds his way to her island, she turns his men into swine. But Odysseus, protected by a gift from Hermes (or is that Makkari?), remains immune. Odysseus challenges her to return his men. Circe does and, impressed by Odysseus, invites him to stay on her island. They spend a year together. So, in the end, love does enter the equation. Its hard to say if Circe will live in Eternals Sersi, though they are the same in the comics. But the two are both powerful beings, not to be crossed.

Marvel Studios/Louvre

Thena, played by Angelina Jolie, is based on Greek mythologys Athena. In the comics, Thena is the daughter of Zuras, leader of the Earths Eternals. Zuras and Thena resemble Athena and her father, Zeus. This means Thena is often mistaken for Athena, but they are not the same in the comics world.

In Greek mythology, Athena is the goddess of wisdom and war. She was born from Zeus skull and thus possesses boundless knowledge. Though she can be aggressive, she also rules over peace and hand-crafts. With Athena as a namesake, fans can expect Eternals Thena to be a fierce combatant and a brilliant military mind, as well as a scholar. At times, Athena becomes enraged and acts thoughtlessly. Thena may fall prey to the same reflex. Despite that, softer hidden depths could emerge.

Marvel Studios/Louvre

Ajak, played by Salma Hayek, is based on Ajax from Greek mythology. Ajax is also not a god but instead an exceptional human. Ajaxs strength and bravery earned him much renown. He is second only to mythologys Achilles.

In the comics, Ajak is an archeologist (and male). This is a fun nod to the idea that Ajax is a popular figure from mythology in our world. He is also a wrestler, winking at the battle-tested fierceness of his namesake.

Marvel Studies/Rodro

Ajak also assumes the identity of the chief Mesoamerican god Quetzalcoatl in Marvels comics. Quetzalcoatl is often depicted as a mix of a bird and a rattlesnake. The gods name comes from a combination of the Nahuatl words quetzal(the emerald plumed bird) andcoatl (serpent). He is the god of wind and rain and also the primary creator of Earth and its people.

Among other things, Quetzalcoatl patrons learning, agriculture, science, and the arts. Additionally, he invented the calendar. So while Ajax offers brawn, Quetzalcoatl adds brains to the equation. A combination of things wed love to see in Ajak.

Hopefully, the MCUs Eternals lean into this aspect of the character and bring this Mesoamerican myth to life.

Marvel Studios/Lucas

Gilgamesh, played by Ma Dong-seok, is based on Gilgamesh from Sumerian mythology. The Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient poem from Mesopotamia. It was recorded in the Akkadian language and exists as one of the earliest pieces of literature in our records. The poem features the demi-god Gilgamesh. Gilgamesh, the king of the Mesopotamian city-state Uruk, is part mortal and part divine. Though he quests for immortality, he never obtains it. But obtains instead an understanding of the meaning of life.

The Epic of Gilgamesh tells a story of friendship. It pens the original bromance, as it were. When Gilgamesh becomes too arrogant, the gods create Enkidu as his rival. Enkidu represents the natural world, whereas Gilgamesh represents the order of society. The two initially fight but become friends. Though theres no word of an epic bro for the Eternals Gilgamesh, it would be a fun nod if one appeared. That said, Gilgamesh will be known for strength and kindness, echoing the myth.

Marvel Studios/Ashley Van Haeften

Kro, whose actor remains unannounced, is based on Cronus from Greek mythology. Kro is not an Eternal but a Deviant. According to Marvel, Deviants are an evolutionary offshoot of humanity which is cursed with an unstable genetic code causing random characteristics to crop up every generation. In Kros case, at least in the comics, a combination of rare traits grants him an incredibly long life. In essence, Kros gift is time.

This is fitting because Cronus is linked with Chronus, the personification of time in philosophy and literature. Chronos is also the Greek word for time. And, over time, all these ideas have become virtually indistinguishable. Cronus also informs Kro, because like Kro, he is close to being a god but not a god. Kro is immortal and powerful like an Eternal, but he isnt one. In myth, Cronus was a crucial part of the universes creation but is termed a titan, not a god. Eventually, Zeus overthrows Cronus and locks him away in Tartarus. Could this fate await Kro, too?

Marvel Studios/Wikimedia Commons

Phastos, played by Brian Tyree Henry, is based on Hephaestus from Greek mythology. In mythology, Hephaestus is the god of the forge. And this makes a lot of sense because Phastos is a great inventor in the Eternals. Hephaestus creations are lauded throughout myth. He even sculpts the first human woman. Hephaestus also forges many of myths weapons, such as the shield of Achilles.

Like his godly counterpart, Phastos moves humanity forward technologically, helping the world evolve.

Marvel Studios/Bootbearwdc

Sprite, played by Lia McHugh, has a more diffuse connection to mythology than other Eternals. There have been many sprites throughout European mythology. In their broadest definitions, they are elves or fairies. But often come kissed with mischief. One of the most famous fairies of this ilk is A Midsummer Nights Dreams Puck. Puck is a devilish fairy, not entirely evil but mildly aggravating. His meddling ways move the plot along.

Like the sprites of mythology, EternalsSprite has more power than it seems. Though she has lived for centuries, she remains stuck in the appearance of a 12-year-old. Folklore sprites often act childishly. And in the Eternalscomics, this was the case with Sprite. However, in the movie, the situation has a twistSprites mind ages but not her body. Much like fairies, Sprite holds narrative darkness not immediately evident. But weve yet to see if Sprite carries mischief in her.

Marvel Studios/Wikimedia Commons

The Eternals Kingo, played by Kumail Nanjiani, does not have an apparent mythological association. However, he could be based on Kingu from Babylonian mythology. According to myth, Kingus mother, a goddess, gave Kingu the Tablet of Destinies, which he wore as a breastplate and which gave him great power. Later, he was killed, but the gods used his blood to create the first humans.

It seems both Kingu and Eternals Kingo share skills in fighting. And they both seem to crave a certain level of power. It will be interesting to see if Kingus myth informs any of Kingos stories.

Marvel Studios/Wikimedia Commons

Druig, played by Barry Keoghan, does not have a clear counterpart in mythology. Although his name sounds like the word for friend in Russian, or droog, it appears Druig is anything but that. Druig will be a villain in theEternals film. He is an Eternal who sides with the Deviants. In the comics, Druig specializes in manipulating reality. He also enjoys flying using fire or earth platforms that he generates.

This elemental connection may see his mythological origin in Druids. His name does resemble the word, after all. Druids are Celtic priests connected to the natural world. Though druids are often peaceful, in certain myths, they were seen more as sorcerers.

In the comics, Druig hails from the Slavic regions. However, none of the Slavic deities seem to align with him.

Mythology often informs our modern stories. Marvels upcomingEternals follows a long tradition of storytelling as it borrows and evolves mythological tales.

Read more:

Are the Eternals Based on the Gods of Mythology? - Nerdist

Action roguelike platformer. How many times have we seen those three words merged together to deliver one gaming experience? Well, lots of times but that doesnt mean theres not room for another. Are you ready to head off on a Dwarf Journey? Its an action roguelike platformer!

Dwarf Adventure would be our liking, but were not going to hold back from giving Dwarf Journey from Orube Game Studio a go just because of its name. Thats mostly because the Xbox Store blurb really sells this, delivering it up as an action roguelite platformer that is full of randomly generated levels. Standard fare there you may think, but then Dwarf Journey gets deeper as you head out on the search for minerals, which in turn will enable you to use better equipment. Keep that circle of trust moving and were pretty sure youll be leveling up and finding success in no time.

Priced at a mere 4.99, Dwarf Journey on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S comes with some serious numbers to play around with. It throws you into the life of one wise warrior the great Gallar who is looking for some new pleasures. So he grabs his axe and heads off to the Valley of Eternity in search of a mystical cave.

Dwarf Journey then unfolds with multiple enemies spread across four biomes, tons of weaponry and armor blueprints to enjoy, four different attributes to evolve and wait for it no less than 500 rune combinations.

If youre up for helping Gallar head into eternity, then the key features in summary include:

For the low price, Dwarf Journey looks to offer much. Well be getting hands on as soon as we can, throwing out some detailed thoughts in the form of a review. In the meantime, get over to the Xbox Store and grab this one.

Let us know if you do by dropping into the comments.

Game Description:

Dwarf Journey is an action roguelite platformer with randomly generated levels. Defeat enemies, level up, assemble your rune build and collect minerals to forge better equipment on an epic journey in search of immortality. History: A glimpse of death made the strong and wise warrior Gallar look for a way to continue enjoying worldly pleasures for all eternity. Ancient writings say there is a mystical cave in the Valley of Eternity that holds a lost relic capable of granting eternal life to the brave who finds it. Armed with his ax and his trusty pickaxe, Gallar sets off for the northern mountains in search of an epic adventure that may cost his own life; or guarantee it forever.

More here:

Take in a Dwarf Journey on Xbox One and Series X|S - TheXboxHub