What is the story of Amphion and Zethus? Greek Mythology Story

Amphion and Zethus, the twin sons of Zeus by Antiope, are well-known figures in Greek mythology. Their story begins with their mother, Antiope, who was a beautiful woman pursued by Zeus himself. When she became pregnant with the twins, her uncle, Lycus, and his wife, Dirce, mistreated her and eventually cast her out. Antiope found refuge with a shepherd, who took her in and cared for her during her pregnancy. It was on Mount Cithaeron that she gave birth to Amphion and Zethus, but fearing for their lives, she entrusted them to the care of the shepherd and fled. Growing up in the care of the shepherd, Amphion and Zethus were raised as commoners, unaware of their royal lineage. Amphion showed a natural talent for music and singing, while Zethus displayed an affinity for hunting and herding. As they reached adulthood, they became known for their respective talents, and their paths eventually crossed. It was during this time that Antiope learned of her sons' whereabouts and their mistreatment at the hands of Lycus and Dirce. Determined to seek justice for her sons, Antiope made her way to Thebes, where Lycus had become ruler, and Dirce his queen. When she finally reunited with her sons, she revealed to them their true heritage and the injustices they had suffered. Driven by their mother's plight and their own sense of injustice, Amphion and Zethus sought to reclaim their rightful place in Thebes and overthrow Lycus and Dirce. Amphion, with his musical prowess, was able to charm the stones of the city's walls to move and build themselves into a fortress. Meanwhile, Zethus led the people in a rebellion against Lycus and Dirce, eventually overthrowing them and taking control of Thebes. Once in power, Amphion and Zethus sought to avenge their mother's mistreatment by punishing Dirce for her cruelty. They tied her to the horns of a wild bull, which dragged her to her death. In some versions of the myth, it is said that this act was also in retaliation for the suffering of their mother at the hands of Lycus and Dirce. Following their victory, Amphion and Zethus ruled Thebes together, each using their unique skills to benefit the city. Amphion, with his musical abilities, is said to have brought great prosperity to Thebes. He married Niobe, the daughter of Tantalus, and together they had many children. However, their happiness was short-lived, as their hubris and arrogance led to a tragic end. Niobe's boastful pride in her numerous children led to their deaths at the hands of Apollo and Artemis, grieving the loss of her children, Niobe turned to stone, and Amphion, in a fit of despair, took his own life. Zethus, on the other hand, focused on the practical matters of ruling Thebes, overseeing its defenses and managing its herds and hunters. He married Thebe, after whom the city was named, and together they had a son named Itylus. However, their happiness was also marred by tragedy, as Itylus was accidentally killed by Zethus's brother, and Thebe took her own life in grief. Zethus eventually abdicated the throne to his nephew, ruling Thebes together with Amphion's son, and spent the rest of his days in quiet retirement. The story of Amphion and Zethus serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of pride and hubris, as well as the complexities of family relationships and the pursuit of justice. Despite their tragic ends, their actions and legacy left a lasting impact on the city of Thebes and became a part of Greek mythology for generations to come. Thank you for watching! Subscribe to the channel, comment, like! #myth #vis 1108