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Paper long abstract

This poster was derived from bibliographic research and from research into primary sources at the Folklore Archive and Museum of the University of Athens. Its purpose is to present the course of the symbol of the "walnut tree" over time in the course of greek folk tradition. It will focus mainly on the magical power of the tree and its connection with death. In this context, myths and legends are presented regarding the magical power of the tree and its effect on the life of the one who plants it. The walnut tree (“karydia”) originated from the transformation of the “Karya”, daughter of Diona from a woman into a tree. Karya was transformed into a tree by Dionysus, who was in love with her. The goddess Artemis taught this myth to the Laconians and they honored Artemis as the "Caryatid." The young girls who formed the dance in honor of Artemis were called Caryatids and today adorn the Acropolis. However, the magical association of the tree's haunting was not lost over the centuries. Greeks believe that "the shadow of walnut tree is heavy" and that whoever plants a walnut tree will die…In this poster, we will take a brief journey through the ages and illuminate the dark side of the tree through legends and myths of folk tradition.