Thetis

Thetis

Thetis is a figure from Greek mythology, known as a sea nymph or Nereid, and the mother of the hero Achilles. She is a significant character in various myths and plays a crucial role in the events leading up to and during the Trojan War.

Mythological Background

Thetis is one of the fifty daughters of Nereus and Doris, making her a Nereid, a type of sea nymph. She is renowned for her beauty and her ability to change shape at will. Thetis was courted by both Zeus and Poseidon, but a prophecy revealed that her son would be greater than his father. To avoid this fate, the gods arranged for her to marry a mortal, Peleus.

Marriage to Peleus

Thetis and Peleus

The marriage of Thetis and Peleus is a well-known mythological event. Peleus, a mortal king, was chosen to be her husband. Thetis, initially resistant to marrying a mortal, transformed into various shapes to escape him. However, Peleus, with the help of the gods, managed to capture her. Their wedding was a grand affair attended by many gods and goddesses, and it was at this event that the goddess Eris threw the golden apple that led to the Judgment of Paris and eventually the Trojan War.

Role in the Trojan War

Thetis played a significant role in the events of the Trojan War, primarily through her son, Achilles. She was deeply involved in his life, from his birth to his death.

Birth and Early Life of Achilles

Thetis attempted to make Achilles immortal by dipping him in the River Styx, holding him by his heel, which became his only vulnerable spot. This act is the origin of the term "Achilles' heel."

Intervention in the War

Hephaistos producing the new arms for Achilles

During the Trojan War, Thetis intervened on several occasions to aid her son. When Achilles' armor was taken by Hector, Thetis went to Hephaestus to request new armor for him. Hephaestus crafted a magnificent set of armor, including the famous shield of Achilles.

Death of Achilles

Thetis mourned deeply for Achilles after his death. She and the Nereids came to mourn him, and she ensured that his body was properly honored.

Depictions in Art and Literature

Thetis has been depicted in various works of art and literature throughout history. She appears in Homer's Iliad, where her relationship with Achilles is a central theme. In art, she is often shown in scenes related to her marriage to Peleus or her interventions in the Trojan War.

Jupiter and Thetis

In paintings, Thetis is sometimes depicted pleading with Zeus or interacting with other gods. Her image has been captured by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres.

Related Pages

• Achilles
• Peleus
• Trojan War
• Nereids
• Hephaestus