Modern media tends to draw heavily from ancient mythologies and folktales, adding a bit of depth and complexity with real-world references. DanMachi is no different as the series has incorporated all sorts of real-world mythos, from the Greek gods to the Irish spirits, with almost every character being a reflection of some sort of folklore. While the gods and goddesses of Orario are an obvious reference as they bear the exact same names as their real-world counterparts, the mythological roots of human characters are a bit tricky, as most of these references have been subverted with differing names and analogies.
Most references are in-line with the ancient mythos, as every human based on these folklore is also associated with their respective real-world god or goddess. Some of these references have been turned into running gags, while others are pivotal for the plot, with each one showcasing the author’s research in terms of incorporating accurate reflections of these ancient mythologies.
Greek Mythology
Most modern adaptations of ancient mythos take inspiration from Greek mythology, primarily due to the vast array of tales and folklore of these deities still accurately preserved. Some of the most famed gods and goddesses are derived from the Greek mythos, with Zeus, Apollo, and Thanos being some of the more well-known gods. Many of their followers and acquaintances have been incorporated into the series, playing roles parallel to their respective deities.
Asfi Al Andromeda
Asfi is a direct reference to Perseus, a famed Greek hero that slayed many beasts and monsters, even decapitating Medusa. Asfi’s relation to Hermes is also a direct reflection of Perseus’ tales, as Hermes lent his sword of gold to the hero to slay Medusa. Her wings are also a reference to the winged sandals that Hermes gave to Persues to fight Medusa, granting him the ability to fly. Her surname also references Greek folklore, as Andromeda is one of the princesses saved by Perseus.
Cassandra
In Greek mythos, Cassandra was a Trojan princess, gifted with the power to predict the future by Apollo after an affair between the two. However, she eventually left Apollo, with the god putting a curse on her that would bar anyone from ever believing her prophecies, since he couldn’t take away her prophetic powers. This has been referenced throughout the series, as Cassandra’s clairvoyance allows her to see premonitions before any tragic event, yet no one is ever willing to put their faith in her visions.
Daphne
Daphne was one of Apollo’s many love interests, with the god dramatically falling in love with her after Eros, the god of love, struck Apollo with a golden arrow. However, Eros struck Daphne with a lead arrow, making her hate the Olympian deity. This resulted in Apollo chasing after Daphne, a tale that is accurately depicted in the Apollo Familia, as Daphne Laurel was forcefully assimilated into the familia after Apollo became obsessed with her. While Apollo was chasing after Bell Cranel, Daphne specifically stated that he stops at nothing to gain what he desires, referencing her own fate in both the series and real-world mythos.
Tiona and Tione
The twins Tiona and Tione have been based off of the Amazon race from Greek Mythology. Amazons were a tribe of fierce warrior women, with their society using males simply as servants and means of procreation. While Amazons do appear in other myths, most of their accounts can only be found within Greek folktales. However, the costumes adorned by these Amazons are of Egyption Origin, while their berserk abilities have roots in the ancient Norse Vikings, linking their mythological ties to several mythos.
Daedalus
Daedalus was a skilled craftsman, known for inventing many tools and devices. One of his most famed creations was the labyrinth he built for King Minos, serving as a prison for the Minotaur. This myth is reflected in the series with Daedalus laying the foundation of a complex labyrinth known as Knossos, one that even rivals the dungeon’s complexities.
Fels
Fels’ story is similar to the tale of Tithonus, a man that was granted immortality yet remained devoid of eternal youth, resulting in him aging indefinitely. Fels underwent a similar fate, as his body entirely disintegrated, with only his skeletal remains intact. Fels’ can also be linked to the myth of the Philosopher’s Stone, a magic stone capable of turning metals into gold. An elixir made out of the Philosopher's Stone can grant immortality, similar to how Fels prolonged his own life.
Norse Mythology
Norse Mythology comprises tales of many deities and their followers, and while most feature brave warriors and romantic tales, others can be equally tragic. DanMachi takes inspiration from several Norse myths, though human references in the series are rather limited.
Ottar
In Norse Mythology, Ottar is the protégé of goddess Freya, becoming one of her most pious followers. In DanMachi, Ottar is one of the strongest adventures in all of Orario, entirely devoted to serving Freya and heeding to her cause.
Bete Loga
Bete has his roots in the Fenrir Wolf tale, a giant wolf that serves as Loki’s mascot. His position in the Loki Familia reflects this tale perfectly, as he is one of Loki’s strongest fighters. Bete Loga’s name is also referenced to this tale, as his adventurer name, Vanargand, is an alias of Fenrir, while Bete means ‘beast’ in French.
Irish Mythology
Irish Mythology is rarely seen in modern media, yet DanMachi makes use of these myths and folktales quite earnestly. Several gods and goddesses in the series are referenced to Irish myths, although links to humans are rather rare.
Finn Deimne
Finn has his roots in the Irish mythological warrior known as Fionn mac Cumhail. Fionn once caught a ‘fish of knowledge,’ which gave wisdom to whoever consumed it. While cooking the fish for his mentor, Fionn burnt his thumb, which he instinctively put in his mouth. Since the fish was in contact with his thumb, he gained wisdom from the fish indirectly by sucking on his thumb. This reference has been used in the series as Finn feels a tic in his thumb whenever he thinks too hard.
Naaza
Naaza’s character has its roots in the Irish King Nuada, who had a mechanical arm made by the god Dian Cecht. However, Miach replaced that arm with a new one made out of flesh and blood. This tale is referenced in the series as Miach gets a mechanical arm made for Naaza by taking out a loan from the Dian Cecht familia.
Hindu Mythology
Since Hinduism has its roots in South Asia, much of its folktales and myths are limited to the Indian-Subcontinent, as evident by the lack of Hindu references in most modern media. However, DanMachi has incorporated several Hindu deities in its extensive lineup of various gods and goddesses. Similarly, many familia members of these gods also have roots in Hindu mythology.
Shakti Varma
In Hinduism, Shakti is the primordial cosmic energy manifested in the form of a female aspect. Shakti also represents the dynamic forces that move through the universe. In the series, however, Shakti is simply a member of the Ganesha Familia and boasts none of the primordial characteristics from the mythos. Although, her position as Captain of the Ganesha Familia signifies her importance in terms of her mythological roots.
Modaka
Modaka’s name is a reference to Modak, a favorite sweet of the Hindu deity Ganesha. Modak is also one of the most common sweets offered in the Hindu prayer ritual known as ‘Puja’. In the series, Modaka is one of the members of the Ganesha Familia, and while he may not be his god’s favorite, he always has his hands full taking care of him.