How Nymphs Were Misunderstood: Over time, the nymph became a symbol shaped by the male gaze, a figure of beauty, temptation, and pursuit. Many of the myths that feature nymphs center on the gods who chased them.

What Are Nymphs? In Ancient Greece, Nymphs were considered minor deities, nature spirits who lived very long lives. They were often the daughters of gods and goddesses, but unlike the Olympians, they were not immortal and were tied to the living world, to water, trees, mountains, and clouds.