MOLOSSUS (mythical son of Pyrrus)
Figure of myth · mythical son of Pyrrus
- Parents
- Neoptolemus, Andromache
- In the sources
- 7 ancient passages
Molossus was the son of Neoptolemus and Andromache, a child who stood beside his mother.1 He was also known as Cypeus Coetus, a figure associated with a swan, and listed as a brother to Pielus and Pergamus.2,3
In a contest involving wild figs, he dragged his rival into the dispute.2 An oracle had foretold his error in that contest.2 He failed to correctly guess the number of young born to a brood-sow.2 Andromache instructed him to embrace his master's knees and pray.1 Molossus called upon his father to rescue those he loved.4
He was described as a cruel sacrifice to the rulers of Phthia.4 Molossus lamented his own future and that of his mother.4 He shared his mother's downward path, nestling beneath her wing.4 He was placed on his mother's bosom in death and the grave.4 Molossus exited the scene alongside Peleus and Andromache.5
Helenus transferred the kingdom to Molossus upon his death.6 Pyrrhus and his ancestors traced their descent to Pielus, not Molossus.6
