Who was Ixion in Greek mythology?
Ixion ruled the ancient tribe of Thessaly known as the Lapiths. His lineage traces back to Perimele and either Ares, Leonteus, Antion, or Phlegyas.
Questions about Ixion
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What crime did Ixion commit against Deioneus?
Ixion pushed his father-in-law Deioneus into a bed of burning coals concealed beneath wood and ash at Larissa. This act made Ixion the first man guilty of kin-slaying in Greek mythology.
How did Zeus punish Ixion for his lust toward Hera?
Hermes bound Ixion to a winged fiery wheel spinning eternally through space. At first the wheel spun across the heavens before later myths placed it in Tartarus.
When did Pindar expand the story of Ixion in his Second Pythian Ode?
In the fifth century, Pindar expanded the example in his Second Pythian Ode. He applied the tale to Hiero I of Syracuse, the tyrant he sang about.
Why is the myth of Ixion considered a warning according to scholars?
Martin Nilsson suggested origins in rain-making magic rituals from ancient times. The story serves as a warning about blasphemous conduct by officiants performing such rites.