PERICLYMENUS (son of Neleus)
Figure of myth · son of Neleus in Greek mythology
- Parents
- Poseidon, Neleus, Chloris
- Siblings
- Nestor
- Children
- Erginus, Penthilus
- In the sources
- 14 ancient passages
Periclymenus, the eldest son of Neleus and Chloris, was born in Pylos.1,2 He was the most valiant among the sons of Neleus.3 Poseidon granted him boundless strength and the ability to change his shape at will during battle.2,4,3
This divine gift allowed him to transform into various animal shapes, such as an eagle, an ant, a swarm of bees, or a snake.4,3 Periclymenus was among the nobles of Greece who assembled to sail on the Argo.1 He set out to join the group mentioned in the text.2
In the battle against the Argives, he killed Parthenopaeus.5,6 In battle, he transformed into a lion, a snake, and a bee.4 He was also about to wound Amphiaraus in the back.5
Periclymenus perched on Heracles' horses, intending to fight the hero, demonstrating his ability to withstand him.7,8 Athena secretly instructed Heracles on how to defeat him.8 The gifts he received ultimately led to his downfall through Athena's planning.8
After the capture of Pylus, Heracles killed Periclymenus.4,3 He will not return alive to his mother.9 Periclymenus was the ancestor of Thrasymedes, and his children were Erginus and Penthilus.7
The codex facts behind this entry
Periclymenus was the eldest son of Neleus and Chloris, born in Pylos. Apollodorus 1.9.16 +2
Powers
Poseidon granted him the ability to change his shape at will during battle, allowing him to transform into various animal shapes such as an eagle, an ant, a swarm of bees, or a snake. Apollodorus 1.9.9 +3
In the myths
Periclymenus killed Parthenopaeus during the battle against the Argives. Apollodorus 3.6.8 +2 Periclymenus perched on Heracles' horses intending to fight the hero, demonstrating his ability to withstand him. Quintus 2 ¶18 +1
Fate
He was killed by Heracles after the capture of Pylus. Apollodorus 1.9.9 +2
