Perseus

Perseus was one of the greatest heroes in Greek mythology. He was the son of Zeus and a princess named Danae. His most famous adventure was defeating Medusa, the monster with snakes for hair. Anyone who looked at Medusa turned to stone.

The Quest for Medusa

Perseus was sent on a quest to bring back Medusa's head. The gods helped him by giving him special tools. Hermes gave him winged sandals to fly. Athena gave him a shiny shield to use as a mirror so he would not look directly at Medusa.

Saving the Princess

On his way home, Perseus saw a princess chained to a rock by the sea. Her name was Andromeda, and a sea monster was coming to eat her. Perseus flew down and used Medusa's head to turn the monster to stone. He married Andromeda and they lived happily.

Fun Facts

• Perseus also received a cap of invisibility from Hades to help on his quest.
• A constellation in the night sky is named after Perseus.
• Andromeda, the princess he saved, also has a constellation and a galaxy named after her.

Did You Know?

Perseus is considered the first hero in Greek mythology. He founded the city of Mycenae, one of the most powerful cities in ancient Greece!