Apheidas facts for kids

In Greek mythology, the name Apheidas (/əˈfaɪdəs/; Ancient Greek: Ἀφείδας or Ἀφείδαντα) refers to several different characters. It was a common name in ancient stories. Let's explore some of the famous figures known as Apheidas.

Different Heroes Named Apheidas

Apheidas, Son of Arcas

One Apheidas was the son of Arcas. Arcas was a very important figure in Greek mythology. He was the ancestor of the Arcadians, a group of people who lived in a region called Arcadia. This Apheidas helped to continue the family line of these ancient people.

Apheidas the Centaur

Another Apheidas was a Centaur. Centaurs were mythical creatures. They had the upper body of a human and the lower body and legs of a horse. This Apheidas attended a famous wedding. It was the wedding of Pirithous, a king, and Hippodamia. Centaurs were often known for their wild behavior.

Apheidas, a Friend of Odysseus

One of the most well-known Apheidas figures was a companion of the famous Greek hero Odysseus. Odysseus was known for his long and difficult journey home after the Trojan War.

Captured by the Cyclops

During their travels, Odysseus and twelve of his crew landed on an island. This island was home to the Cyclopes. These were giant, one-eyed monsters. One Cyclops named Polyphemus captured Odysseus and his men. He trapped them in his cave.

A Tragic End

Polyphemus was a very cruel monster. He began to eat Odysseus's crew members. Sadly, Apheidas was one of the six men who were eaten by Polyphemus. Other companions who died with him included Antiphon and Euryleon. Odysseus and the remaining six crew members eventually managed to escape the Cyclops's cave.

Apheidas, King of Athens

There was also an Apheidas who became a king. He ruled the ancient city of Athens. This Apheidas was the son of a king named Oxyntes. His time as king was very short. He ruled for only one year. After his brief reign, his brother, Thymoetes, took over the throne of Athens.

Apheidas and the Molossians

Finally, another Apheidas was a king after whom a group of people were named. These people were part of the Molossians. The Molossians were a powerful tribe in ancient Greece. They lived in the region of Epirus. Because of this king, a part of the Molossians were called Apheidantes.

See Also

• Apheidas, son of Arcas