CANOPUS IN GREEK MYTHOLOGY
Canopus in Greek Mythology
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Canopus was the pilot of Menelaus’ ship that travelled to Troy, when Menelaus, and the rest of the Achaean force sought to retrieve Menelaus’ wife Helen.
Canopus survived the war, and piloted the ship of Menelaus on its voyage home. The ship was blown off course by a large storm, making land in Egypt, at a time when Theoclymneus was potentially king. Canopus would step ashore, but was bitten by a poisonous snake, and would subsequently die from the bite. |
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Following the death of Canopus, Menelaus would bury his beloved friend, and would found the town of Canopus in honour of his pilot; Canopus being a small coastal town to the east of Alexandria in antiquity.
Some tell of how Theonoe, sister of King Theoclymneus had fallen in love with Canopus, but that the Greek sailor had not loved her in return.
Some tell of how Theonoe, sister of King Theoclymneus had fallen in love with Canopus, but that the Greek sailor had not loved her in return.
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Colin Quartermain - Canopus - 31st August 2025