Iambe

In Greek mythology, Iambe was an old woman who made Demeter smile or laugh when the latter was mourning the loss of her daughter, Persephone. She was a daughter of Echo and Pan. She was the first priestess of Demeter.

How did Iambe make Demeter laugh? She created an elaborate ritualized exhibition of herself. She exposed herself completely and Demeter could not help but be amused by her brazen display. This act of humour and courage lifted Demeter from her grief and the earth became fertile once more. This is the story of a brazen little trickster girl saving the world by circumventing the established codes of propriety.