ALCAEUS OF MYCENAE IN GREEK MYTHOLOGY

​In Greek mythology, Alcaeus was a son of Perseus, and although a prince in his own right, is best known for being the father of Amphitryon.

​Alcaeus Son of Perseus

​Alcaeus was one of the seven sons of Perseus and Andromeda, and thus brother to Cynurus, Electryon, Heleus, Mestor, Perses and Sthenelus. Alcaeus also had two sisters in the form of Gorgophone and Autochthe. 

​The Family of Alcaeus

​There is differing opinions amongst ancient sources about who Alcaeus was married to, for three women are named. The wife of Alcaeus was therefore either, Astydaemeia, a daughter of Pelops and Hippodamia; Laonome, a daughter of Guneus, or Hipponome, daughter of Menoeceus, and thus sister to Creon.

Alcaeus then became father to three children. The most famous of these children was a son called Amphitryon, who became the surrogate father of the legendary Heracles.

Alcaeus though was also father to two daughters, Anaxo, who would marry her uncle, Electryon, becoming Queen of Mycenae in time, and Perimede, who married Licymnius, the illegitimate son of Electryon. 

​King Alcaeus?

It is normally said that Electryon became king of Tiryns and Mycenae, succeeding his father Perseus. Some though suggest that Electryon ruled only Mycenae, whilst Alcaeus ruled in Tiryns.

When Alcaeus’ son, Amphitryon accidentally killed Electryon though, it was said that Sthenelus seized Electryon’s kingdom, ruling both Mycenae and Tiryns. This suggests that Alcaeus was never a king, but was purely a Mycenaean prince. 

Amphitryon would find refuge in Thebes with his intended, Alcmene, had would have further adventures, though nothing more of Alcaeus is recorded. 

Contents

Colin Quartermain - Alcaeus of Mycenae- 29th August 2021