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The Assemble of Goddes

Written by Anonymous

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Gods, Roman

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About this book

"The Assemble of Goddes" by Anonymous is a poem written in the late 15th century. This work is attributed to John Lydgate but is believed by modern scholars to have an unknown author, likely a woman, reflecting a blend of classical mythology and moral themes. The poem encompasses various deities from classical mythology who engage in a trial or assembly, discussing their influence on human affairs and societal virtues, with a focus on the characters of Virtue and Vice. At the start of "The Assemble of Goddes," the narrator describes a dream in which they are taken by Morpheus to the parliament of gods presided over by Pluto. The opening presents various gods and goddesses, each representing different aspects of life, such as love, justice, and nature. Diana and Neptune each voice complaints against the volatile god Colus, who has caused disruption in their realms. The turbulent assembly hints at a deeper exploration of moral themes, justice, and the consequences of vice among both divine beings and humankind.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Assemble of Goddes, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • Didactic
  • Allegorical
  • Formal

In the late 15th-century allegorical poem, "The Assemble of Goddes," an anonymous narrator recounts a dream vision where they are transported by Morpheus to a divine parliament presided over by Pluto. This assembly convenes to address the disruptive influence of the volatile god Colus, against whom deities like Diana and Neptune voice their grievances. Through this classical framework, the poem explores profound moral themes, primarily the eternal conflict between Virtue and Vice, examining the impact of divine actions on human affairs and societal virtues. The work serves as a didactic exploration of justice, order, and the consequences of moral failings, reflecting the intellectual currents of its era.

“Through Morpheus' guiding hand, to realms divine I soared, where gods in solemn parliament adored.”

Key themes

Virtue vs. Vice
This is the foundational theme of the poem, presented through the conflict between the disruptive Colus (representing Vice) and the divine order that seeks to uphold goodness (Virtue). The poem explores the nature of moral good and evil, their constant struggle, and their impact on both divine and human realms. It serves as a didactic lesson on the importance of choosing righteousness.
Justice and Order
The poem investigates the principles of justice and the necessity of maintaining order, both divinely and, by extension, within human society. The assembly of gods, presided over by Pluto, acts as a supreme court seeking to restore balance against the chaos wrought by Colus, emphasizing that true justice is essential for harmony.
Allegory as Moral Instruction
The poem exemplifies the medieval tradition of using allegory as a primary means of moral and ethical instruction. By personifying abstract concepts (Virtue, Vice, Discord) and embedding them within a narrative framework, the author makes complex philosophical ideas accessible and memorable, guiding the audience toward virtuous living.

Worth discussing

How does the use of classical mythology enhance or complicate the poem's moral message?

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