dye-oh-NYE-suhs] The Thracian god of wine, represents not only the intoxicating power of wine, but also its social and beneficent influences. He is viewed as the promoter of civilization, a lawgiver, and lover of peace — as well as the patron deity of both agriculture and the theater. Son of Zeus and Semele.
Greek god of wine and vegetation, and associated with religious frenzy. Born out of Zeus's thigh, he is usually accompanied by satyrs, nymphs and maenads.