EUTERPE, one of the nine muses, who was supposed to preside over lyric poetry and playing on the flute, the invention of which instrument is ascribed to her. The name is derived from eu well and terpe I delight; hence Euterpe signifies the inspirer of pleasure. This goddess is usually represented as a virgin crowned with flowers, and holding a flute; or with various musical instruments lying around her. To Euterpe has also been ascribed the invention of tragedy, which, however, is more usually attributed to her sister Melpomene.