Melpomene - Definition and Overview

There is also an asteroid 18 Melpomene.

Melpomene ("choir") was a Muse in Greek mythology. She was the muse of tragedy, despite her joyous singing. She is often represented with a tragic mask and wearing the cothurnus, boots traditionally worn by tragic actors. Often, she also holds a knife or club in one hand and the tragic mask in the other. On her head she is shown wearing a crown of cypress.