GRACES, in heathen mythology, three goddesses, whose names were Aglaia, Thalia, and Euphrosyne; that is, shining, flourishing, and gay; or, according to some authors, Pasitheia, Euphrosyne, and Regiale. Some make them the daughters of Jupiter, and Eurynome, or Eunomia, the daughter of Oceanus; but the most common opinion is, that they were the daughters of Bacchus and Venus.
They are sometimes represented dressed; but more frequently naked, to shew, perhaps, that whatever is truly graceful, is so in itself, without the aid of exterior ornaments. They presided over mutual kindness and acknowledgment; bestowed liberality, eloquence, and wisdom, together with a good grace, gaiety of disposition, and easiness of manners.