Palaemon facts for kids
Palaemon was a minor Greek sea god. He was originally named Melikertes. His mother was Ino, who later became the sea goddess Leukothea. Palaemon became a god when his mother jumped into the sea with him. She was trying to escape from Athamas, who had been driven to a state of extreme anger and confusion by the goddess Hera.
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Who Was Palaemon?
Palaemon is known in Greek mythology as a god of the sea. He was a helper to sailors and people who traveled by boat. His story is quite sad, but it ends with him becoming a powerful deity.
His Family and Early Life
Palaemon's first name was Melikertes. He was the son of Ino, a princess who later became a goddess. Ino was also the stepmother of Dionysus, the god of wine. His father was Athamas, a king.
The goddess Hera was very angry with Ino's family. She caused Athamas to become very confused and filled with rage. In his confused state, Athamas chased Ino and Melikertes.
How Melikertes Became a God
To escape her angry husband, Ino ran to a high cliff overlooking the sea. Holding her son Melikertes tightly, she bravely jumped into the water.
The Greek gods felt pity for Ino and her son. They transformed them into sea deities. Ino became the goddess Leukothea, known for helping sailors in trouble. Her son, Melikertes, became the sea god Palaemon.
Palaemon's Role in Mythology
As Palaemon, he was often seen as a protector of harbors and a helper for sailors. He was sometimes linked to the Isthmian Games, a famous athletic event held near Corinth. These games were said to have been started in his honor.
See also
- Greek gods
- Leukothea
More Information
- In Spanish: Palemón para niños
