Monday, August 23, 2010

Field Medic Chiron is Founded in Greek Mythology

I would like to thank Niko Simonson.  It turns out Niko is quite up to date on his history.  After seeing the Field Medic he thought it was inspired by "Chiron".  When questioned about this he gave a quick background.  Bry then pulled a wikipedia.  Thanks also to Bry for forwarding it to me.

But it appears that The Centaur Field Medic is founded in Greek Mythology.  I decided to make this figure in white/red because it seemed to be a good place to start.  It seemed a good partner to the Time Medic once I got into it.  Now I find out I am not quite as original as first thought.  Who knew?  Who says collecting toys isnt educational.


It appears the Centaur Field Medics actual name is Chiron.

"In Greek mythology, Chiron (also Cheiron or Kheiron) (Greek: Χείρων; "hand") was held to be the superlative centaur among his brethren. Like the satyrs, centaurs were notorious for being overly indulgent drinkers and carousers, given to violence when intoxicated, and generally uncultured delinquents. Centaur were also wild and lusty. Chiron, by contrast, was intelligent, civilized and kind.  He was known for his knowledge and skill with medicine."


"According to an archaic myth he was sired by Kronos (Cronus) when he had taken the form of a horse and impregnated the nymph Philyra. "

"Myths in the Olympian tradition attributed Chiron's uniquely peaceful character and intelligence to teaching by Apollo and Artemis in his younger days."

"Ironically, Chiron, the master of the healing arts, could not heal himself, so he willingly gave up his immortality. He was honoured with a place in the sky, for the Greeks as the constellation Centaurus."

"Chiron appears on the cap badge of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps and also appeared on a similar badge worn by the Royal Canadian Army Veterinary Corps."