MACARIA IN GREEK MYTHOLOGY

​Macaria was the name of a daughter of Heracles in Greek mythology. Macaria is an example of those who willingly sacrificed themselves.

​Macaria Daughter of Heracles

​Macaria was the daughter of Heracles and Deianira (daughter of Oeneus); Macaria was thus sister to Ctesippus, Glenus, Hyllus and Orites. 

Following the death and apotheosis of Heracles, the lifelong animosity that King Eurystheus had held for Heracles did not end. Eurystheus now sought to kill all of the children and grandchildren of  the mythological hero. There were many descendants of Heracles, collectively known as the Heracleidae (Heraclidae) or Heraclides. 

​The Heracleidae would travel Ancient Greece seeking sanctuary, for Eurystheus pursued them at the head of a large army. Few kingdoms though were willing to face the anger of Eurystheus. Eventually though, Macaria and the other Heracleidae found safety in Athens, when King Demophon welcomed them. 

​The Sacrifice of Macaria

​Eventually, Eurystheus and his army arrived at the gates of Athens, but Demophon refused to give up those that he had welcomed. Thus, battle lines were drawn. 

It was at this time that an oracle made a prophecy that Demophon and the Heracleidae would be victorious in battle if a virgin of noble birth was sacrificed to the goddess Persephone. Macaria willingly volunteer to die, to ensure victory for her siblings, and wider family. 

Eurystheus was subsequently defeated, and indeed the king died, perhaps at the hands of Hyllus. 

In recognition of the sacrifice of Macaria, the Macarian Spring was named in her honour. 

Contents

Colin Quartermain - Macaria - 13th October 2025