The Greek god Zeus had many children with many women, immortal and mortal, respectfully. Two of his most famous mortal sons were Perseus and Heracles. Perseus is often believed to be a son of Poseidon because of Percy Jackson, whose name is Perseus.
Perseus of Greek mythology is a son of Zeus who is most famous for beheading Medusa and rescuing Princess Andromeda from the Kraken after her mother, Queen Cassiopeia, bragged she was the most beautiful woman alive. We all know this story and the one about Heracles, best known as Hercules, due to the countless films and television shows created over the years.
But did you know Perseus and Heracles have a connection that extends past them being paternal half-brothers?
Perseus is Heracles’ maternal great-grandfather. For those who are confused, let’s explain.
Upon his union, Perseus had nine children with Andromeda: seven sons and two daughters. Electryon, one of their sons, had a daughter named Alcmene. Alcmene is well-known for being the mother of Heracles and his twin half-brother, Iphicles.
The Complex Family Tree Of Heracles And Perseus
Here’s a fundamental way to look at it for those still a little confused. Zeus slept with his granddaughter and conceived Heracles the same night she slept with her husband Amphitryon and conceived Iphicles.
To add to this confusing story, Amphitryon is also a grandchild of Perseus, as his father was Alcaeus, one of Electryon, effectively making Amphitryon and Alcmene cousins. It was believed that Amphitryon was Heracles’ father, but it soon became apparent that he wasn’t.
In conclusion, Ampithryon and Alcmene also had a daughter together, Laonome, making her the half-sister of Heracles.
So, Heracles and Perseus weren’t only half-brothers, but Heracles was Perseus’ descendant via his mother.
