BA2 - Mermaid Research

Mermaid Research

Mermaids are one of the most popular figures in folklore. They are often portrayed with the upper body of a beautiful woman and the lower body of a fish. It is believed that the first ever mention of a mermaid appeared in ancient Assyria, where the goddess Atargatis transformed herself into a mermaid out of shame for accidentally killing her loved one.

A Classic representation of a Mermaid

Mermaids do have many similar figures throughout history and they are often associated with the Sirens who come from the mythological Greek.

There are many reported encounters with mermaids, even now in the 21st century we have reported sightings from Canada, Israel and Zimbabwe. One of the more famous reported sightings is from Christopher Columbus, who reported that he saw Mermaids while exploring the Caribbean.

Mermaids have many similar figures throughout history and are often associated with Sirens, who lure sailors to their deaths in Greek Mythology with their voices. Some also believed that mermaids could raise and calm storms at will. 

The modern view of mermaids was shaped by Hans Christian Andersen 1836 by his fairytale “The Little Mermaid” which later became a famously animated movie by Disney.

Ariel in My Little Mermaid by Disney.

References: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mermaid 
http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Mermaids.aspx

Images:
http://memberfiles.freewebs.com/72/70/72027072/photos/Waiahuaka-Mermaids/mermaid%20(1).jpg
https://grantstevens.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/ariel-the-little-mermaid-14629313-1280-1024.jpg