Bellerophon

Definition

Bellerophon is a hero from Greek mythology, best known for his epic adventures including the slaying of the Chimera and his bond with the winged horse Pegasus. His story is one of triumph and tragedy, showcasing his extraordinary feats and eventual downfall, which intertwines with themes of hubris and divine retribution. He is often associated with the gods, particularly as he received help from Athena and was ultimately punished by Zeus for his arrogance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bellerophon was the son of Glaucus and came from the city of Corinth; he was known for his extraordinary skill as a warrior.
2. He received guidance from the goddess Athena, who provided him with a golden bridle to tame Pegasus.
3. After defeating the Chimera, Bellerophon undertook many other adventures, but his pride led him to attempt to reach Mount Olympus.
4. Zeus punished Bellerophon for his hubris by sending him tumbling back to earth, leading to his eventual isolation and despair.
5. Bellerophon's story emphasizes moral lessons about humility and the dangers of overreaching one's limits.

Review Questions

• How did Bellerophon's relationship with Pegasus contribute to his heroic identity and accomplishments?
  • Bellerophon's bond with Pegasus was crucial in shaping his heroic identity. After taming Pegasus with the help of Athena's golden bridle, he was able to soar through the skies and confront formidable foes like the Chimera. This relationship not only enhanced his status as a hero but also symbolized divine favor, showcasing the blend of human bravery and divine assistance in Greek mythology.
• What role does hubris play in Bellerophon's narrative and how does it affect his fate?
  • Hubris plays a central role in Bellerophon's narrative as it ultimately leads to his downfall. After achieving great success by slaying the Chimera and riding Pegasus, Bellerophon allowed pride to cloud his judgment and attempted to fly to Mount Olympus. This act of overreaching angered Zeus, who then punished him by causing him to fall from Pegasus and live a life of isolation. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of excessive pride.
• Evaluate Bellerophon's legacy within Greek mythology, particularly in relation to themes of heroism and divine intervention.
  • Bellerophon's legacy is significant within Greek mythology as it encapsulates essential themes such as heroism intertwined with divine intervention. While he exemplified bravery by overcoming formidable challenges, including the defeat of the Chimera, his eventual punishment highlights the fine line between heroic acts and hubris. The narrative not only reflects on personal achievements but also serves as a reminder of the gods' authority over mortals, suggesting that even the greatest heroes are subject to divine will and moral lessons regarding humility.

Related terms

Chimera: A monstrous fire-breathing creature in Greek mythology, often depicted as a hybrid of a lion, goat, and serpent, which Bellerophon famously defeated.

Pegasus: The winged horse that sprang from the blood of Medusa, which Bellerophon tamed and rode into battle against various foes.

Hubris: Excessive pride or self-confidence, often leading to a downfall, as seen in Bellerophon's story when he attempted to fly to Mount Olympus.