#polydeuces

fat-walda:

MYTHOLOGY MEME: [1/7] heroes, prophets and saints

CASTOR AND POLLUX - In Greek and Roman mythology, the heroes Castor (Κάστωρ) and Pollux (Πολυδεύκης, known as Polydeuces to the Greeks) were twin brothers who appeared in several prominent myths. While accounts differ, the common legend has it that their mother Leda was admired by Zeus, who seduced or raped her in the guise of a swan. Their consummation, on the same night as Leda lay with her husband Tyndareus, resulted in two eggs from which hatched Castor and Pollux. The twins were worshiped as gods who helped shipwrecked sailors and who brought favorable winds for those who made sacrifices to them. The Romans considered Castor and Pollux the patron gods of horses and of the Roman social order of mounted knights, called equites.