Karel Petrus Cornelis de Bazel, Den Helder 1869-1923 Amsterdam, walnut secretaire à abattant.
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1. Who are Castor and Pollux? |
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Although they are often referred to as "the Dioscuri," which means "Sons of Zeus," there are different versions concerning their lineage. They are situated in Sparta and are said to be sons of Leda and Zeus. According to another version, they are sons of King Tyndareus of Sparta and Leda. Another story mentions that Pollux (or Polydeuces) had Zeus as a father, making him immortal, while his twin brother Castor had Tyndareus as a father, making him mortal. They participated in the quest for the Golden Fleece and experienced many other adventures. During a battle, Castor was killed. Pollux asked Zeus to bring his brother back to life, but Zeus only allowed them to spend one day together on Olympus and the other in the underworld.
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2. What is their jurisdiction? |
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| As an inseparable pair of brothers, they are invoked as helpers in times of need, especially in battle and during storms at sea. The Greeks saw the presence of the Dioscuri in St. Elmo's fire (a blueish light discharge at the mastheads). The constellation "Gemini" is named after them and served as a guide for sailors. They are also protectors of equestrian and boxing sports. In Rome, they were revered as protectors of the city after assisting the Romans in the battle against the Latins. A temple was erected in the place where they were believed to have arrived at the forum to announce the Roman victory. |