Theseus

greek mythology · heroes · monsters

Slayed the Minotaur. Theseus bravely entered a dark labyrinth in Crete to fight the Minotaur, a fearsome creature with a bull's head and human body that had been eating people as a sacrifice. He defeated it with his strength and courage.

Followed a golden thread. According to the myth, Theseus used a ball of golden thread given to him by Princess Ariadne to find his way back out of the twisting, impossible maze after defeating the Minotaur. Without it, he would have been lost forever.

Prince of Athens. Theseus was the son of either the god Poseidon or King Aegeus of Athens, making him a divine hero with royal blood. He became one of the greatest kings of ancient Athens.

Adventurer and explorer. Beyond the Minotaur, Theseus went on many other quests and fought dangerous creatures, monsters, and enemies throughout Greece. His journeys made him famous across the ancient world.

Inspired great stories. The myths of Theseus have been told and retold for thousands of years by writers, playwrights, and storytellers who loved his brave deeds and legendary adventures.