Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Achelous and Hercules explained
The river-god Achelous, hosting Theseus and his companions, recounts his defeat by Hercules in a struggle for Dejanira.
What happens
The river-god Achelous, hosting Theseus and his companions, recounts his defeat by Hercules in a struggle for Dejanira. He describes transforming into a serpent and a bull, but Hercules overpowered him and tore off his horn, which became the Cornucopia. The chapter also explains the allegorical interpretation of the myth and provides an alternative origin of the Cornucopia involving Jupiter and the goat Amalthea.
Themes in this chapter
Hubris and Divine Retribution
Achelous boasts of his power and lineage, but is humbled by Hercules, illustrating the theme of pride leading to downfall.
Love and Transformation
Achelous transforms into a serpent and a bull in his contest for Dejanira's hand, linking love with physical metamorphosis.
Heroism and the Quest
Hercules' victory over Achelous is part of his heroic labors, demonstrating strength and perseverance in overcoming natural forces.
Characters to notice
- Theseus
Guest of Achelous, to whom the river-god tells his story.
- Vulcan
Hercules is mentioned as the conqueror of Achelous, though his canonical ID is 'vulcan' (Hercules is an alias).
- Jupiter
Referenced as the father of Hercules and as the infant god cared for by the daughters of Melisseus.
- Juno
Mentioned as the stepmother of Hercules who imposed heavy tasks on him.
Key passages
“Who likes to tell of his defeats? Yet I will not hesitate to relate mine, comforting myself with the thought of the greatness of my conqueror, for it was Hercules.”
No one enjoys recounting their losses, but I will share mine because I take solace in the fact that my victor was the mighty Hercules.
Achelous expresses reluctance but pride in being defeated by such a renowned hero.
“He urged in his behalf his descent from Jove and his labors by which he had exceeded the exactions of Juno, his stepmother.”
Hercules argued his case by citing his divine lineage from Jupiter and his completion of the labors imposed by his stepmother Juno.
Hercules uses his parentage and achievements to win Dejanira's father's favor.
“Thrice Hercules tried to throw me off, and the fourth time he succeeded, brought me to the ground, and himself upon my back. I tell you the truth, it was as if a mountain had fallen on me.”
Hercules attempted to throw me three times, and on the fourth attempt he succeeded, pinning me to the ground with his full weight, like a mountain crushing me.
Achelous vividly describes the physical struggle and Hercules' overwhelming strength.