Hyperion (Titan) facts for kids

In Greek mythology, Hyperion (meaning 'the high one') was a powerful god. He was one of the twelve original Titans. These were the first generation of gods. They were born from Gaia (Earth) and Uranus (Sky).

Hyperion and his Titan siblings, led by Cronus, overthrew their father Uranus. Later, the Olympians defeated the Titans. Hyperion's sister was the Titaness Theia. Together, they had three important children: Helios (the Sun), Selene (the Moon), and Eos (the Dawn).

Who Was Hyperion?

Hyperion was known as the Titan of light, observation, and the east. He was often seen as a god who watched over the world. His name, 'the high one', suggests his connection to the sky and light. He was one of the six male Titans.

The First Generation of Gods

Hyperion was part of the very first family of gods. His parents, Uranus and Gaia, were the sky and the earth. They had many children, including the Titans, the Hekatonkheires (hundred-handed giants), and the Cyclopes (one-eyed giants).

Hyperion's Family

Hyperion married his sister, Theia. She was the Titaness of sight and shining light. Their children became very important gods of the sky:

• Helios: The god who drove the sun chariot across the sky each day.
• Selene: The goddess who guided the moon across the night sky.
• Eos: The goddess of the dawn, who opened the gates of day.

The War of the Titans

Like all the Titans, Hyperion was involved in the Titanomachy. This was a huge war between the older Titans and the younger Olympian gods. The Olympians were led by Zeus, Cronus's son.

Defeat and Imprisonment

After ten years of fighting, the Olympians won the war. Many Titans, including Hyperion, were sent to Tartarus. This was a deep, dark prison in the underworld. They were kept there so they could not cause trouble again.

Hyperion in Stories

Hyperion is not as famous as some other Greek gods. He is often mentioned as the father of Helios, Selene, and Eos. He represents the older, powerful forces of the universe.

Literary Works

The famous poet John Keats wrote an epic poem called Hyperion. This poem tells the story of the Titans' fall from power. It shows how the younger Olympian gods took over.

See also

In Spanish: Hiperión para niños