Despena

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “despózo (δεσπόζω) despótēs (δεσπότης),” meaning “master, ruler, prevail, govern, be the leader.” The name is, however, linked to the Mycenaean Greek “*des-potnia,” composed of two elements: Proto-Indo-European “*dem/*dṓm” (house, home) plus Ancient Greek “pótnia (πότνιᾰ)” (mistress, lady). In turn, the name means “master of the house.” Despoina was the daughter of Demeter and Poseidon and sister of Arion. She was the goddess of mysteries of Arcadian cults worshipped under the title Despoina “the mistress” alongside her mother Demeter, one of the goddesses of the Eleusinian mysteries. Her real name could not be revealed to anyone except those initiated to her secrets.