Dryads — Forest Nymphs in Greek Mythology
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DryadsDryads are forest nymphs in Greek mythology — beautiful, delicate, and remarkably powerful protectors of trees. They were considered daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, or in another version, of Uranus and Gaia. They are kind to people who treat nature with respect, but cruel to those who fail to value it or cause it harm.
It is believed that each dryad is mentally and physically bound to a specific tree. If that tree is harmed, the dryad feels an equal pain. And anyone who insults or kills a dryad this way will feel the wrath of the gods upon them. A vivid example of such punishment is the myth of King Erysichthon. He ordered a tree to be cut down in Demeter's sacred grove. As she died, the dryad cursed the king and his entire line, and Demeter afflicted him with endless hunger. Erysichthon squandered his entire fortune on food, but still could not be satisfied — until at last he devoured himself.
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