AEGIMIUS (king of the Dorians)
Figure of myth · mythical character, king of the Dorians
When the Lapiths, led by Coronus, waged war against him over border disputes, Aegimius requested military assistance from Heracles.1,2 In exchange for this aid, he promised Heracles a third of the land and kingship.1,2 Heracles acted as a military ally to Aegimius during this conflict and restored him to his throne after he had been exiled.1,7
Some sources state that Heracles transferred the entire country to Aegimius without charge.1 Others hold that Heracles entrusted a third of the land to Aegimius to hold in trust for his descendants.2 Aegimius adopted Hyllus, the eldest son of Heracles, as a reward for his earlier help.7
After Heracles' death, Aegimius and his descendants inherited the kingdom.7 The Heracleidae came to Aegimius to demand the return of land their father had entrusted to him.3 They made their home among the Dorians following this encounter.3 Apollo caused the valiant sons of Aigimios to dwell at Lakedaimon, Argos, and Pylos.8
The codex facts behind this entry
Aegimius held the title of king over the Dorian people. Apollodorus 2.7.7 +2
In the myths
Aegimius requested military assistance from Heracles to fight the Lapithae. Apollodorus 2.7.7 +1 Aegimius promised Heracles a third of the land and kingship in exchange for his help. Apollodorus 2.7.7 +1
