Ampelus

Ampelus (Ancient Greek: Ἄμπελος, "vine") was a figure in Greek mythology, particularly associated with Dionysus, the god of wine. Accounts vary, but Ampelus is commonly described as a beautiful satyr, youth, or mortal beloved by Dionysus.

According to some versions of the myth, Ampelus was killed in a tragic accident while riding a bull. In other accounts, he fell from a tree while gathering grapes, or was gored by a bull sent by a jealous goddess (usually Hera).

In mourning for Ampelus, Dionysus transformed him into the first grapevine. Some sources also say that Dionysus turned Ampelus into a constellation, the constellation Boötes, which is located near the constellation Ursa Major. The star Arcturus is sometimes associated with Ampelus as well, referencing the vine tendrils (ἄμπελος) clinging to the "bear" (ἄρκτος).

The myth of Ampelus serves as an etiological explanation for the origin of the grapevine and its connection to wine and the worship of Dionysus. His death and subsequent transformation into the vine underscore the themes of mortality, transformation, and the divine power of Dionysus.