10 Ways the Moon Has Secretly Shaped Human History

3. The Moon in Mythology and Folklore

The Moon has been a central figure in mythology and folklore across cultures, embodying a rich tapestry of meanings and symbolism. In many traditions, the Moon is associated with femininity and fertility, its waxing and waning phases mirroring the cycles of life and nature. Deities such as the Greek goddess Selene and the Roman goddess Luna personify the Moon's mysterious allure, embodying its power to influence both the natural world and human destiny. In other cultures, the Moon is seen as a guardian of time and a mediator between the earthly and the divine. The ancient Egyptians believed the Moon was the eye of Horus, a symbol of protection and renewal, while the Aztecs revered the Moon as a manifestation of the god Tecciztecatl, associated with the night and the passage of time. These myths reflect the Moon's role as a bridge between the tangible and the spiritual, a celestial presence that connects humanity to the cosmos. Folklore also abounds with tales of the Moon's influence on human behavior and emotions. The term "lunacy" derives from the belief that the full moon could induce madness, a notion that persists in popular culture today. Stories of werewolves and other creatures of the night further illustrate the Moon's association with transformation and the unknown. These narratives capture the Moon's enigmatic power, a force that continues to inspire wonder and imagination across generations.