Canens is a character from Roman mythology who personified song and sound. Her name comes from the Latin verb “canere”, which means “to sing”. In mythology, she was often depicted as a charming nymph who could charm everyone with her voice. Canens was known for the beautiful melodies she sang, and her songs had magical powers. She was the daughter of Janus – the god of beginnings and doors.
Canens was also present in the context of various rituals and ceremonies related to music and singing. It was believed that her songs influenced the harvest, which made her important in the religious practices of the Romans. Canens singing was a symbol of joy, love and fertility.
According to Roman mythology, Canens’ husband was Picus – the deity of forests, animals and magic. Canens was tested by the sorceress Circe, who wanted to claim Picus for herself. However, Picus rejected Circe’s charm and was turned into a woodpecker. The distraught Canens, unable to bear the loss of her husband, threw herself into the Tiber River after six days.
- H. J. Rose, A Handbook of Greek and Roman Mythology, 2005
