Ideology > Sthenelus

Sthenelus

Background

Sthenelus is a name that appears multiple times in Greek mythology, referring to different characters. Two of the most notable Stheneluses are:

1. Sthenelus, Son of Capaneus:

   • Parentage: Sthenelus was the son of Capaneus, one of the Seven Against Thebes, and Evadne. Capaneus was known for his arrogance and was struck down by Zeus with a thunderbolt during the siege of Thebes.
   • Role in Mythology: Sthenelus is best known for his role as one of the Epigoni, the sons of the original Seven Against Thebes who launched a second attack on the city to avenge their fathers. This second campaign was successful, and they managed to capture Thebes.
   • Association with Diomedes: Sthenelus was a close companion of the hero Diomedes. He participated in the Trojan War and fought alongside Diomedes. He is often depicted as a loyal and courageous warrior.
   • Mention in the Iliad: In Homer's "Iliad," Sthenelus is mentioned several times. He fights valiantly in the Trojan War and is portrayed as a capable and honorable warrior.

2. Sthenelus, King of Mycenae:

   • Parentage: Sthenelus was the son of Perseus and Andromeda. Perseus, one of the greatest heroes of Greek mythology, is famous for slaying Medusa and rescuing Andromeda from a sea monster.
   • Role as a King: Sthenelus became the king of Mycenae after the death of his father, Perseus. As a ruler, he is noted for his leadership and governance.
   • Family: Sthenelus married Nicippe (also called Antibia or Archippe), and they had a son named Eurystheus. Eurystheus is best known in mythology for being the king who imposed the Twelve Labors upon Heracles.

Sthenelus, Son of Capaneus (Key Details):

1. Epigoni Campaign: Sthenelus played a significant role in avenging his father's death by participating in the successful attack on Thebes led by the Epigoni.
2. Trojan War: He was one of the Achaean leaders and fought valiantly. His loyalty and bravery are highlighted in several passages of the "Iliad."
3. Companion of Diomedes: Sthenelus is frequently mentioned alongside Diomedes, one of the greatest Greek warriors of the Trojan War.

Sthenelus, King of Mycenae (Key Details):

1. Son of Perseus: As the son of the legendary hero Perseus, Sthenelus inherited the kingdom of Mycenae and continued the legacy of his heroic lineage.
2. Father of Eurystheus: His son Eurystheus is a significant figure in the mythology of Heracles, as he imposed the Twelve Labors on Heracles.
3. Leadership: His rule over Mycenae is noted, although there are fewer myths specifically focused on his deeds as king.

Summary

Sthenelus appears in Greek mythology as both a heroic warrior and a king. As the son of Capaneus, he is known for his role in the Epigoni campaign and the Trojan War, where he is depicted as a loyal companion to Diomedes and a brave fighter. As the son of Perseus and king of Mycenae, he is the father of Eurystheus, the king who tasked Heracles with his Twelve Labors. Both versions of Sthenelus highlight the themes of loyalty, bravery, and leadership in Greek mythology.

Sources

Primary Sources

Secondary Sources

Apollodorus, Bibliotheca, 2. 4. 5

Greek Ideology