Tityos

Tityos was a giant in Greek mythology, the son of Zeus and Elara. He is known for his punishment in the underworld.

Mythology

Tityos was the son of Zeus, the king of the Olympian gods, and Elara, a mortal woman. According to myth, Zeus hid Elara from his wife Hera by placing her deep within the earth. Tityos grew to an enormous size, and upon his birth, he was brought to the surface.

Tityos is most famous for his attempt to violate Leto, the mother of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. As punishment for this transgression, Tityos was slain by Apollo and Artemis. After his death, he was condemned to eternal torment in the underworld.

Punishment

In the underworld, Tityos was stretched out over nine acres, and two vultures were set to feed on his liver, which would regenerate every night. This punishment was similar to that of Prometheus, who was also subjected to eternal torment for defying the gods.

Cultural References

Tityos' story has been referenced in various works of literature and art throughout history. His punishment is often cited as an example of the severe consequences of offending the gods in Greek mythology.

See Also

• Greek mythology
• Zeus
• Leto
• Apollo
• Artemis
• Underworld
• Prometheus