Who was Eurystheus daughter? Greek Mythology Story

Admete, the daughter of King Eurystheus and Antimache, is a figure in Greek mythology who is often overshadowed by the more well-known heroes and heroines of the ancient tales. However, her story is an interesting one, and sheds light on the complex family dynamics that were a part of the mythic world.

As the daughter of King Eurystheus, Admete was a member of the royal family of Mycenae, a city in the northeastern Peloponnese. She was one of several siblings, including her brothers Alexander, Iphimedon, Eurybius, Mentor, Perimedes, and possibly Eurypylus. While her brothers are often mentioned in connection with various heroic exploits, Admete herself is less frequently featured in the tales of Greek mythology.

The meaning of Admete’s name is significant in understanding her role in the mythic tradition. Her name, which translates to “the unbroken, unwedded, untamed”, suggests a certain resilience and independence. In a society where women were often defined by their relationships to the men in their lives, Admete’s name hints at a spirit of defiance and strength.

One of the most well-known episodes involving Admete takes place in connection with the Twelve Labors of Heracles. Eurystheus, Admete’s father, was responsible for assigning these labors to Heracles as a form of penance for his past misdeeds. One of these labors involved retrieving the girdle of Hippolyta, the queen of the Amazons. This girdle was a powerful and prestigious symbol, and Eurystheus desired it as a gift for Admete.

When Heracles set out on his quest to obtain the girdle, he faced numerous challenges and obstacles. However, he ultimately succeeded in his mission and returned to Mycenae with the prized girdle in hand. It was then that Admete, the unbroken and untamed princess, played a crucial role in the story.

Upon his return, Heracles presented the girdle to Eurystheus as a token of his success. However, when Eurystheus attempted to take the girdle and give it to Admete, Heracles intervened. He insisted that the girdle should be returned to its rightful owner, Queen Hippolyta, and refused to allow Eurystheus to use it as a gift for his daughter.

This episode highlights the agency and independence of Admete, as well as the complex relationship between her and her father. While Eurystheus sought to use the girdle as a symbol of his daughter’s worth and desirability, Heracles’ actions demonstrated a respect for the autonomy and integrity of Admete, as well as a recognition of the importance of honoring the possessions and agency of others.

In some versions of the myth, Admete is depicted as a princess who must endure the consequences of the actions of those around her. The labors of Heracles, assigned by her father, have far-reaching effects on her life and her family. Her role in the tales of Greek mythology serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by women in the ancient world, and the ways in which they navigated the expectations and limitations placed upon them.

While Admete may not be as famous as some of the other figures in Greek mythology, her story is a compelling one that offers insight into the dynamics of family, power, and agency in the ancient world. As the unbroken and untamed princess of Mycenae, she defies the expectations placed upon her and asserts her own strength and independence. Her name and her role in the mythic tradition serve as a reminder of the resilience and spirit of the women of ancient Greece.

Thank you for watching!
Subscribe to the channel, comment, like!

#myth #vis ac33