Eurystheus

/jʊˈrɪsθjuːs/ noun

Definition

In Greek mythology, the king who commanded Heracles (Hercules) to perform the Twelve Labors as punishment for his crimes.

Etymology

From Greek, likely meaning 'wide strength' or related to 'eury-' (wide). A character name from ancient Greek mythology preserved in classical literature.

Kelly Says

Eurystheus was actually terrified of Heracles and would hide in a bronze jar when the hero returned with monsters—the supposedly mighty king who commanded the world's strongest man was actually a coward!

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