Eurytion

Eurytion is a legendary figure from Phthia, Greece, dated to ~1300 BC (Prehistoric era). It connects to 5 other myths and legends in the Mythosjourney atlas.

Eurytion, the King of Phthia and son of Irus, was a distinguished figure in Greek mythology who was honored as both a member of the Argonauts and a participant in the hunt for the Calydonian Boar. His narrative is deeply connected to the hero Peleus, whom Eurytion welcomed and purified after Peleus was exiled from Aegina for the murder of his half-brother. Demonstrating great hospitality, the king shared his realm by granting Peleus a third of his kingdom and the hand of his daughter, Antigone, in marriage.

During his time with the Argonauts, Eurytion was known for his ritualistic devotion, famously vowing to let his hair grow until he safely returned to his homeland. However, his life met a tragic end during the Calydonian Boar hunt when Peleus accidentally struck him with a spear intended for the rampaging beast. This fatal chest wound resulted in Eurytion's death in the woods, causing Peleus to flee Phthia in search of a new purification in Iolcus.

Although Peleus later attempted to offer a vast herd of cattle as blood money to Eurytion’s father, the compensation was refused, leaving a somber conclusion to the king's legacy.