Chthonic gods and goddesses in Greek mythology and their depictions on the ceramics

The thesis describes many of the chthonic gods and goddesses and their depictions in scenes that take place underground or are connected to the underworld. The thesis covers Attica and Apulia ceramics, as well as one Corinthian and two Campanian ceramics. The chthonic aspect of the gods Hades, Hermes, Zeus and Dionysus, and of the goddesses Persephone, Demeter, Ge, Hecate, Eriyns and Moirai is defined by utilizing ancient and modern sources. Although all ceramics showcasing underground themes or related topics are examined, the thesis only includes the description of works that exhibit different stylistic features from the earliest, the latest, and those produced during their respective periods. Within the scope of the above-mentioned subject, it is defined in which periods and how the chthonic gods and goddesses were depicted on ceramics. It is observed that the Moirai and all chthonic gods and goddesses, except for Chthonic Zeus and Ge, are depicted in matters that take place underground and are related to the underworld. Demeter has been depicted in matters related to the underworld. The topics depicted on Attic vases include the abduction of Cerberus, the punishment of Sisyphus, the descent of Peirithoos and Theseus to Hades, and the bringing of Persephone to the surface or down to the underworld. The topics related to the underworld are the abduction of Persephone and the moment of her emergence from the earth. In the case of Apulia ceramics, apart from the moment of Persephone's emergence from the underworld, along with the above-mentioned subjects, subterranean subjects such as Amphiaraus and Dionysus' arrival in Hades, Orpheus' recital and the rescue of Eurydice by Orpheus were depicted. İn addition Hermes is seen in psychostasia scenes in one Campanian work and Attic works, and is also depicted in Attic works depicting the journey of a dead person or soul.