Jupiter Neptune Minerva And Momus
According to an ancient legend, the first man was made by Jupiter,
the first bull by Neptune, and the first house by Minerva. On the
completion of their labors, a dispute arose as to which had made the
most perfect work. They agreed to appoint Momus as judge, and to abide
by his decision. Momus, however, being very envious of the handicraft
of each, found fault with all. He first blamed the work of Neptune
because he had not made the horns of the bull below his eyes, so he
might better see where to strike. He then condemned the work of Jupiter,
because he had not placed the heart of man on the outside, that everyone
might read the thoughts of the evil disposed and take precautions
against the intended mischief. And, lastly, he inveighed against Minerva
because she had not contrived iron wheels in the foundation of her
house, so its inhabitants might more easily remove if a neighbor proved
unpleasant. Jupiter, indignant at such inveterate faultfinding, drove
him from his office of judge, and expelled him from the mansions of
Olympus.
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