The Muses are the nine goddesses of the arts and sciences from ancient Greek mythology. They were gods in their own right, and they were often seen as the inspiration behind many great pieces of art.
These ancient mythological figures have been discussed and depicted for centuries by various figures, and they remain important mythological icons to this day because of their direct connection to the arts.
Erato was the Muse of lyric poetry, with a specific focus on love poetry. Whenever she has been depicted, she has generally been shown holding a lyre while wearing a wreath of myrtle and roses.
Euterpe is generally depicted alongside instruments, mostly wind instruments of which she was a supposed inventor. As the Muse of music and musicians, she was traditionally evoked to aid them in their compositions.
Polyhymnia, as her name suggests, was the Muse of hymns and other sacred poetry. In addition, she has an association with the pantomime as well as agriculture.
Thalia is another of the Muses in Greek mythology that is strongly associated with ancient Greek drama as she is the Muse of comedy. In addition, she is often associated with idyllic poetry.
Urania is the Muse of astronomy, and so those who were inspired by her were those who studied the heavens. Urania was credited with inventing the globe and a compass.