Mortal

Aeetes

The Colchian king who suspects a bid for his throne and delays the Fleece behind a deadly test.

MythWeave AI-assisted editorial pottery-line illustration

Overview

Aeetes is both holder of the Fleece and Medea’s father. Guest-friendship first restrains him from killing the arrivals outright, so he imposes a bull trial he claims he can perform; after Jason succeeds, he still prepares to destroy the ship and crew, collapsing the bargain.

Relationships

Colchisrules
Aeetes is king of Colchis when Jason arrives.
Heliosis father of
Aeetes is a son of the sun god Helios.
Jasonpresents Pelias’ demand
Jason explains his imposed errand and asks Aeetes for the Fleece.
Yoking the Fire-Breathing Bullsimposes the deadly trial
Aeetes requires Jason to face the bulls, ploughing, dragon teeth and warriors before he will hand over the Fleece.
Golden Fleecewithholds after completion
After the trial, Aeetes still withholds the Fleece and prepares to destroy the ship.
Chalciopefather of
Aeetes is the father of Chalciope.

Story appearances

The ArgonautsAeetes in the Argonaut expedition
Aeetes enters this story through the Argonaut expedition; other versions are handled where their own episodes call for them.

Ancient sources

MythWeave distinguishes ancient-source evidence from later adaptations and modern interpretation.

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