Cerberus, the three-headed watchdog of the Underworld, is a fascinating creature with interesting mythology behind him. This post will explore some of the most famous Cerberus stories and learn more about this imposing creature.
What is Cerberus in Greek Mythology?
Mythical creatures from Greek mythology include various animals, and Cerberus is one of the most well-known. Wild dogs were revered and feared by the Greeks, which explains why this mythological dog Cerberus. It also demonstrates their regard for dogs’ capacity to serve as watchdogs. The mythical dog protected the entrance to Hades, also known as The Underworld in Greek mythology. The only people permitted entry were the spirits of the dead, and none were allowed to leave the Underworld.
The ‘Hound of Hades’ was another title for Cerberus. It was a monstrous beast with a mane of poisonous snakes and saliva. Its name originated from the Greek words “ker” and “erebos,” which, when interpreted, mean “Death Daemon of the Dark,” which is another name for Cerberus.
The Story About Cerberus: Myths and Legends
Cerberus would patrol the banks of the river Acheron, keeping watch over Hell’s entrance to keep the spirits of the deceased from escaping its clutches. Theseus, Pirithous, and Orpheus are just a few examples of Greek mythology heroes who have escaped Cerberus and entered the Underworld of Hades. Despite being a formidable guardian of death’s gates.
The Heracles’ Twelfth Labor
The children of Typhon and Echidna are usually known for their battles with Greek heroes, in which the heroes win, and the monsters die. Cerberus’ encounter with Heracles, the greatest Greek hero of all time, made him a household name. At the time, Heracles was serving King Eurystheus. It had been given a list of difficult tasks (labors) to perform by the king of Tiryns. Finally, Heracles was tasked with rescuing Cerberus from Hades, his twelfth and final labor.
Heracles And Cerberus
Heracles bravely went into the Underworld, and Charon was forced to ferry him across the river Acheron. Heracles went to the deity’s palace and spoke to Hades and his wife Persephone rather than facing the wrath of the great god Hades. Cerberus was allowed to return to the Underworld once Heracles had obtained permission from Hades to have him removed, provided his hound was not hurt in the process. To subdue Cerberus, Heracles put his weapons to one side and engaged the Hound of Hades head-on. Cerberus finally bowed to Heracles’ will after Heracles put him in a choke grip.
Cerberus Taken and Returned
Heracles is said to have then dragged Cerberus out of the land of the dead through the Tenarus entrance. All men were terrified when Heracles brought Cerberus through Greece to King Eurystheus’ court. Cerberus would be returned to the Underworld by Heracles, where he would watch over the spirits of the dead once more.
Orpheus and Cerberus
Orpheus’s lovely wife, Eurydice, died after stepping on a deadly snake. When Orpheus’ beloved wife died, he resolved to travel to Hades in an attempt to reclaim her. Those who heard him play were mesmerized by the enchanting sound of his lyre. A river ferryman who exclusively ferries dead souls consented to bring Orpheus over the River Styx for him. When Orpheus encountered Cerberus, the monster fell asleep due to Orpheus’ song.
Aeneas and Cerberus
Virgil’s Aeneid claims that the Greek hero Aeneas visited the Underworld and encountered Cerberus, the hellhound. Unlike Heracles and Orpheus, Aeneas received the support of the Greek prophetess, Sibyl, in his war against the dog. Cerberus ate a honey cake that had been loaded with sedatives. Within minutes, Cerberus fell asleep, and Aeneas was able to enter the Underworld.
The Tasks Given to Cerberus
Hades selected Cerberus from all the beasts to be the watchdog. There is no greater creature in the Underworld than Cerberus. There would be mayhem if Cerberus didn’t exist. In the afterlife, there would be people. As the bridge between those in the land of the living and the Underworld, he served as a conduit for souls. No one ever believed that Cerberus could be slain or defeated until Hercules fought the beast, subdued it, and dragged it from the Underworld. His main task was to watch over the “Hound of Hades,” where he protects the dead from departing and the living from entering.
Is Cerberus a Benevolent or Malevolent Figure
Cerberus appears in a wide variety of literary genres. Cerberus is mentioned in the book “Dante’s Inferno” as a guardian of Hell’s third circle. Cerberus has been referenced in ancient literature and art throughout the ages. Greco-Roman art frequently depicted him also. The beast first appears on a Laconian cup dating from the early sixth century BC. The capture of Cerberus on Attic vases was widespread in Greece. However, it was often represented alongside Hercules’ other tasks in Rome. However, Cerberus was considered a benevolent being, despite his nickname as the “hellhound.” Cerberus’ job was often portrayed as a protector of the Gates of Hell from undesirable invaders and keeping the dead from fleeing as the watchdog of the Underworld.
According to Greek mythology, Cerberus is one of the greatest mythological beings and played a key role in guarding the Gates of Hell.
