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The Curetes were mythological figures associated with ancient Greek religion. They are primarily known as priests of the Cretan goddess Rhea. In one prominent myth, the Curetes were young warriors who guarded the infant Zeus on the island of Crete. To prevent his father, Cronus, from hearing the baby's cries, they clashed their weapons together.12

The Curetes are often identified or confused with the Corybantes, who were attendants of the Great Mother of the Gods. While both groups performed wild dances as part of their rituals, the Corybantes were distinguished by their Asiatic origin and more orgiastic rites. The Corybantes were also credited with inventing the drum and were believed to have healing powers for mental disorders.3

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. Zeus
  2. Curete
  3. Corybantes

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