“He sung, and hell consented
To hear the poet’s prayer,
Stern Proserpine relented,
And gave him back the fair.”
F. Lewis.
Proteus (Pro′teus). A marine deity, who could foretell events and convert himself at will into all sorts of shapes. According to later legends, Proteus was a son of Poseidon.
“The changeful Proteus, whose prophetic mind,
The secret cause of Bacchus’ rage divined.”
The Lusiad.
“What chain can hold this varying Proteus fast?”
Budgell.
Psyche (Psy′che). The wife of Cupid. The name is Greek, signifying the soul or spirit.
Pygmalion (Pygma′lion). A famous sculptor who had resolved to remain unmarried, but he made such a beautiful statue of a goddess that he begged Venus to give it life. His request being granted, Pygmalion married the animated statue.
“Few, like Pygmalion, doat on lifeless charms,
Or care to clasp a statue in their arms.”
Pylades (Py′lades). The son of Strophius, King of Phanote, and husband of Electra; famous on account of his faithful friendship with Orestes.
“His wine
Was better, Pylades, than thine.
... If you please
To choose me for your Pylades.”
F. Lewis.
Pylotis (Pylo′tis). A Greek name of Minerva.