1 definition by William Ballard
NEMESIS was the goddess of indignation and retribution for evil deeds or undeserved good fortune. She was a personification of the resentment aroused in men, -and in the gods-, by other men who commited crimes with apparent impunity, or who had inordinate good fortune. Her name means 'she who distributes or deals out'.
Nemesis directed human affairs in such a way as to maintain equilibrium. Happiness and unhappiness were measured out by her, care being taken that happiness was not too frequent or too excessive. If this happened, Nemesis could bring about losses and suffering. As one who checked extravagant favours by Tykhe (Fortune), Nemesis was regarded as an avenging or punishing divinity.
Nemesis directed human affairs in such a way as to maintain equilibrium. Happiness and unhappiness were measured out by her, care being taken that happiness was not too frequent or too excessive. If this happened, Nemesis could bring about losses and suffering. As one who checked extravagant favours by Tykhe (Fortune), Nemesis was regarded as an avenging or punishing divinity.
by William Ballard December 1, 2003