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I studied Latin in 7th grade, and my teacher used to read some stories from Greek and Roman mythology to us. There is one of those that I wanted to learn more about, but haven't been able to find. Here is what I remember. Bear with me, that was over twenty years ago.

One god (or two?) is travelling disguised as a mortal. He asks an elderly, poor couple for hospitality, and is very well received. The couple goes as far as killing its only goose to feed the traveller.

If I remember correctly, they keep serving wine to the traveller, and realise something is weird because the amphora remains full.

Eventually the traveller reveals that he is a god and, to thank them for their generosity, turns them both into a tree, half oak and half olive tree or something of the sort, so that they will remain forever together.

As I said, it was a very long time ago, and I may have some elements wrong, but I think I remember the general idea correctly. Does someone know what Greek and/or Roman myth this is?

scozy
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1 Answers1

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This is the myth of Baucis and Philemon.

Here is the Wikipedia page: Baucis and Philemon, and here is one website with the full text (I think): Tales Beyond Belief: Baucis and Philemon.

By the way, the two gods were Zeus and Hermes, and the two trees were oak and linden.

El'endia Starman
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