EMATHION (king of Aethiopia)
Figure of myth · mythological character, son of Zeus
Emathion, born in Ethiopia, held the title of king over the people of Ethiopia, observing justice and fearing the gods.1,2,3 The Dawn and Tithonus are named as his parents, and Memnon is his brother, though other accounts list Zeus and Electra as his parents.3 He was associated with the stream of the Granicus.4
Emathion initiated an unprovoked battle against Heracles.2 Due to his age, he avoided fighting and instead condemned the warriors with words.1 He clung to altars with trembling hands while speaking imprecations.1 Chromis cut off his head with a sword while he was at the altar, and his head fell onto the altar.1
The codex facts behind this entry
Fate
Heracles killed Emathion during their conflict in Ethiopia. Aeneid 9.530 +1
