King Pelias

Definition

King Pelias is a figure from Greek mythology, known for his role in the story of Jason and the Argonauts. He was the ruler of Iolcus and is primarily remembered for his ruthless nature and the quest he imposed on Jason to retrieve the Golden Fleece, which ultimately led to his downfall. Pelias's actions set in motion a series of heroic adventures involving several notable Greek heroes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. King Pelias was the son of Tyro and Poseidon, making him a demigod with divine lineage.
2. He seized the throne of Iolcus from his half-brother Aeson, Jason's father, establishing a legacy of treachery.
3. Pelias feared a prophecy that foretold his downfall at the hands of a man wearing one sandal, which led him to challenge Jason.
4. In an attempt to eliminate Jason as a threat, Pelias sent him on an impossible quest for the Golden Fleece, hoping he would not return.
5. Ultimately, Pelias was defeated by Jason and Medea, who used her magic to cause Pelias’s daughters to kill him in a misguided attempt to rejuvenate their father.

Review Questions

• How did King Pelias's actions directly influence Jason's journey and the formation of the Argonauts?
  • King Pelias's actions significantly shaped Jason's journey by imposing the quest for the Golden Fleece upon him. Fearing a prophecy regarding his demise, Pelias sought to eliminate Jason by sending him on what he believed was an impossible mission. This not only forced Jason into a heroic role but also led to the assembly of the Argonauts, turning the quest into an epic adventure filled with challenges and notable heroes.
• Analyze the character of King Pelias and discuss how his fear of prophecy drives the narrative of Jason and the Argonauts.
  • King Pelias embodies the theme of fear and tyranny in Greek mythology. His irrational fear of a prophecy warning him about his downfall motivates him to act against his own family and send Jason on a perilous quest. This fear ultimately leads to his manipulation and treachery, showcasing how such fears can result in one's own destruction. Pelias’s decisions serve as catalysts for much of the narrative surrounding Jason, illustrating how prophecy can shape destinies in myths.
• Evaluate the consequences of King Pelias's ambition and treachery on both his fate and the broader mythological themes present in Greek stories.
  • King Pelias's ambition and treachery ultimately lead to his tragic downfall, illustrating a common theme in Greek mythology where hubris leads to punishment. His ambition to maintain power at all costs results in not only his demise but also reflects broader themes such as justice and retribution. The intervention of divine elements through prophecies further emphasizes that no matter how powerful one may be, they cannot escape fate. Thus, Pelias's story serves as a cautionary tale about ambition, fear, and the inevitable consequences that arise from defying destiny.

Related terms

Jason: A hero from Greek mythology, Jason is known for leading the Argonauts on a quest to find the Golden Fleece, which he was sent to retrieve by King Pelias.

Argonauts: The group of heroes who accompanied Jason on his quest for the Golden Fleece, including famous figures like Heracles and Orpheus.

Golden Fleece: A legendary golden ram's fleece that was a symbol of authority and kingship, which Jason sought as part of his quest instigated by King Pelias.