Autonoe (mythology) facts for kids
In Greek mythology, Autonoë (say "aw-TAW-noh-ee") is a name given to several different women. The name Autonoë means "think for oneself."
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Who Was Autonoë?
The name Autonoë was used for a few different people in ancient Greek stories. It can be a bit confusing because they all share the same name!
Autonoë the Sea Nymph
One important Autonoë was a Nereid. Nereids were beautiful sea-nymphs, like mermaids, who lived in the ocean. There were 50 of them! Autonoë was a daughter of Nereus, who was known as the 'Old Man of the Sea', and Doris. Her name also meant 'giver of inspiration'.
Autonoë, Daughter of Cadmus
Another Autonoë was a princess. She was one of the daughters of Cadmus and Harmonia. Cadmus was a famous hero and the founder of the city of Thebes.
Autonoë and Heracles
There was also an Autonoë who was the daughter of Pireus. She became the mother of a son named Palaemon. The father of Palaemon was the famous hero Heracles.
Autonoë, Penelope's Maid
Finally, an Autonoë was one of the maids who worked for Penelope. Penelope was the wife of the hero Odysseus in the famous story of the Odyssey.
