ELYSIUM  , in

Greek mythology, the Elysian fields, the abode of the righteous after their removal from earth . In Homer (Od. iv . 563) this region is a plain at the farthest end of the earth on the banks of the river Oceanus, where the fair-haired Rhadamanthys rules, and where the people are vexed by neither snow nor storm, heat nor cold, the air being always tempered by the zephyr wafted from the ocean . It is no dwelling of the dead nor part of the lower world, but distinguished heroes are translated thither without dying, to live a life of perfect happiness . In Hesiod (W. and D . 166) the same description is given of the Islands of the Blessed under the rule of Cronus, which yield three harvests yearly . Here, according to Pindar, Rhadamanthys sits by the side of his father Cronus and ad-ministers judgment (01. ii . 61, Frag . 95) . All who have successfully gone through a triple probation on earth are admitted to share these blessings . In later accounts (Aeneid, vi . 541) Elysium was regarded as part of the underworld, the home of the righteous dead adjudged worthy of it by the tribunal of Minos, Rhadamanthys and Aeacus .

Those who had lived evil lives were thrust down into

Tartarus, where they suffered endless torments .