Theseus
Athenian hero who in the Heracles underworld tradition is trapped in Hades after going there with Pirithous.
Overview
Theseus is central to Athenian heroic tradition, but in the present underworld material he first appears as a trapped figure in the story of Heracles’ descent. The Library narrates Heracles meeting Theseus and Pirithous while fetching Cerberus and allowing Theseus to leave. This account preserves the intersection with Hades and Heracles; the full Athenian hero cycle belongs to a separate expansion.
Key facts
Descends with Pirithous
The Library mentions Theseus and Pirithous being trapped when Heracles comes for Cerberus.
Encountered by Heracles
Heracles’ underworld task briefly brings the Theseus story into contact with the Heracles story.
Relationships
- Pirithouscompanion of
Pseudo-Apollodorus' underworld passage links Theseus and Pirithous as companions.
Ancient sources
MythWeave distinguishes ancient-source evidence from later adaptations and modern interpretation.