ETEOCLUS IN GREEK MYTHOLOGY
Eteoclus was a heroic figure from surviving tales of Greek mythology. Eteoclus is most famous for his role as one of the seven commanders of the Seven Against Thebes.
Eteoclus Son of Iphis
Eteoclus was the son of Iphis, king of Argos; Iphis though was only one of three kings of Argos, for the kingdom of Argos had been divided into three, potentially in the time of Iphis’ grandfather Anaxagoras.
The mother of Eteoclus is not named in surviving sources.
The mother of Eteoclus is not named in surviving sources.
Eteoclus and The Seven Against Thebes
At the time of the dispute between Polynices and Eteocles, Eteoclus’ father ruled one third of Argos, with the other thirds being ruled by Adrastus and Amphiaraus.
It was Adrastus who convinced others to aide his plan of restoring Polynices, now his son-in-law to the throne of Thebes. Amphiaraus was eventually convinced by his wife, Eriphyle, despite Amphiaraus knowing the fate that awaited him, and all others who joined the attacked. Iphis too was convinced, but being too old, sent his son Eteoclus in his place. |
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Eteoclus was also joined by his brother-in-law, Capaneus, wife of Eteoclus’ sister, Evadne; as well as Adrastus, Amphiaraus, Hippomedon, Parthenopaues, Polynices and Tydeus.
Eteoclus At Thebes
Little is known of the character of Eteoclus, although Adrastus was said to have described him as dignified and humble. A physical trait of Eteoclus though, was the fact that he was fleet of foot, for at the Nemean Games, which preceded the assault on Thebes, Eteoclus won the foot race.
At Thebes, Eteoclus faced one of Thebes’ seven gates, most commonly said to be the Neistan gate, where he faced either Magareus or Eteocles. Magareus was killed early in the conflict, although his death is not explicitly said to have been caused by Eteoclus.
Eteoclus though was quickly thereafter killed himself, killed by Leades, son of Astacus of Thebes.
There is no mention of Eteoclus having married, and no mention of any offspring either; and certainly a son of Eteoclus was not present amongst the Epigoni, when a new generation of Argives sought to avenge their fathers.
Iphis was succeeded to his potion of Argos, by his grandson, Sthenelus, son of Capaneus.
At Thebes, Eteoclus faced one of Thebes’ seven gates, most commonly said to be the Neistan gate, where he faced either Magareus or Eteocles. Magareus was killed early in the conflict, although his death is not explicitly said to have been caused by Eteoclus.
Eteoclus though was quickly thereafter killed himself, killed by Leades, son of Astacus of Thebes.
There is no mention of Eteoclus having married, and no mention of any offspring either; and certainly a son of Eteoclus was not present amongst the Epigoni, when a new generation of Argives sought to avenge their fathers.
Iphis was succeeded to his potion of Argos, by his grandson, Sthenelus, son of Capaneus.
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Colin Quartermain - Eteoclus - 18th February 2024