1. The Graces were goddesses of grace and beauty, often associated with Aphrodite; the Seasons were nature-spirits who presided over the several stages of the year and the gifts of the earth; the Nymphs haunted natural objects such as woods, springs and mountains; all were represented in art as beautiful young women.

2. In Plato’s version of a party attended by Socrates (Symposium), love is the main topic.