Who was Jason in Greek mythology?
Jason was a Greek mythological hero and leader of the Argonauts who sought to reclaim his throne from Pelias. He assembled a crew of heroes aboard the ship Argo to retrieve the Golden Fleece from Colchis.
Questions about Jason
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Apollonius Rhodius write the definitive version of Jason's story?
Apollonius Rhodius wrote the epic poem Argonautica during the late third century BC in Alexandria. This text remains the primary source for the narrative of Jason and the Argonauts.
How did Medea help Jason complete the tasks set by King Aeetes?
Medea provided an ointment that protected Jason from fire-breathing oxen called Khalkotauroi. She also warned him how to defeat warriors sprouting from dragon teeth and used a potion to make a sleepless dragon fall asleep so he could seize the fleece.
Why did Pelias die after Jason returned with the Golden Fleece?
Pelias died when his daughters followed Medea's instructions to chop him into pieces and boil him in a cauldron without adding magical herbs. They believed this would restore their father's youth based on Medea's demonstration with a ram.