Yes, both Dis Pater and Orcus were figures in Roman mythology associated with the underworld, and can be considered gods. However, their roles and identities are complex and somewhat overlapping. Here's a breakdown:
* Dis Pater: Literally meaning "Father Dis," he was an early Roman god of the underworld, wealth, and fertility (since riches came from the earth). He was often identified with the Greek god Hades (Pluto in Roman). Dis Pater was seen as a more benevolent figure than some other underworld deities.
* Orcus: Orcus was also a Roman god of the underworld. However, he was often seen as more of a punisher of broken oaths and a more frightening figure than Dis Pater. Over time, Orcus became associated with demons and was a general term for the underworld itself. The Italian word "orco" (ogre) derives from him, reflecting his monstrous image.
Overlapping and Differences:
* Both Dis Pater and Orcus were connected to the underworld, and their functions sometimes overlapped.
* Dis Pater was more closely identified with the Greek Hades/Pluto and had aspects of wealth and fertility.
* Orcus was more associated with punishment, demons, and a general frightening image of the underworld.
In summary, while both were gods of the underworld, Dis Pater was a more direct equivalent of Hades/Pluto, while Orcus embodied the darker, more punitive aspects of the underworld.