XVI Erinys

Revenge and sorrows dire to you belong, hid in a savage vest, severe and strong.
Orphic Hymn, ca. 300 BCE – 150 CE

The Erinyes were underworld goddesses of vengeance and retribution, especially for crimes that broke familial bonds and other sacred covenants. Armed with vicious serpents and whips, they punished the wicked relentlessly, driving them to madness and despair, until they were cleansed of their sins or died.

Image source: Apulian Red Figure Vase, ca. 350 BCE