In the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, the name Xanthus (or Xanthos) appears in various contexts, representing both divine and human characters, as well as equine figures. This article delves into the different manifestations of Xanthus, exploring their roles and significance in the ancient Greek world.

Divine Figures

One of the most prominent divine figures bearing the name Xanthus is the gods’ name for Scamander, the great river of Troy and its patron god. Another divine Xanthus is one of the twelve sons of the god Pan, who were allies of Dionysus during his Indian campaign. This Xanthus was said to have a distinctive mane of hair that gave him his name.

Human Characters

Several human characters in Greek mythology also carry the name Xanthus. One such figure is the son of King Triopas and Oreasis. Another Xanthus was an Egyptian prince, son of King Aegyptus, who met a tragic end at the hands of his wife-cousin, the Danaid Arcadia.

The Arcadian royal family also had a member named Xanthus, the son of Erymanthus and a descendant of King Lycaon. He was the father of Psophis, a possible eponym of the city bearing the same name.

In Theban mythology, Xanthus appears as one of the Niobids, the children of King Amphion and Niobe, daughter of King Tantalus of Lydia. He shared this fate with his numerous siblings, including Alalcomeneus, Eudorus, Argeius, Lysippus, Phereus, Pelopia, Chione, Clytia, Hore, Lamippe, and Melia.

Love and Family

Xanthus also appears in stories of love and family. One such tale involves Xanthus as the lover of Alcinoe, who left her family to be with him. Another Xanthus is mentioned as the husband of Herippe.

In Lycian mythology, Xanthus is one of the four sons of Tremiles, the eponym of Lycia, and the nymph Praxidike, daughter of Ogygus. His brothers were Tloos, Pinarus, and Cragus. This Xanthus is believed to be the husband of Laodamia, daughter of Bellerophon, and father of Sarpedon, a notable warrior in the Trojan War.

Trojan War Connections

Xanthus is also connected to the Trojan War through various characters. One such figure is the father of Glaucippe, a possible mother of Hecuba. This Xanthus may be the same as the river-god Xanthus (Scamander).

Another Xanthus, a Trojan warrior and son of Phaenops, fought alongside his twin brother Thoon. Both brothers were killed by Diomedes during the war.

Equine Figures

In addition to divine and human characters, the name Xanthus is associated with horses in Greek mythology. One of the Mares of Diomedes bore this name, as did one of Achilles’ two horses and one of Hector’s horses.

The name Xanthus appears in various contexts throughout Greek mythology, representing divine figures, human characters, and even horses. From the great river-god of Troy to the tragic Theban prince, and from the lover of Alcinoe to the valiant Trojan warrior, the stories of Xanthus offer a glimpse into the rich and diverse world of ancient Greek storytelling.