The Cyclops

The Cyclopes were giant creatures in Greek mythology. They had just one big eye in the middle of their foreheads. Some Cyclopes were skilled builders and blacksmiths. Others were wild shepherds who lived in caves.

Different Kinds of Cyclopes

There were two types of Cyclopes in Greek myths. The first group worked as blacksmiths for the gods. They made Zeus's lightning bolts, Poseidon's trident, and Hades' helmet. The second group were wild giants who lived on islands and herded sheep.

Odysseus and Polyphemus

The most famous Cyclops was Polyphemus, a son of Poseidon. The hero Odysseus and his men got trapped in his cave. Polyphemus ate some of the men. Odysseus tricked the Cyclops by saying his name was 'Nobody,' then blinded him and escaped under the sheep.

Fun Facts

• When Polyphemus called for help, he yelled 'Nobody is hurting me!' so no one came.
• Ancient Greeks may have thought elephant skulls were Cyclops skulls because of the big nose hole.
• The Cyclopes who worked as blacksmiths lived inside volcanoes.

Did You Know?

Scientists think the legend of the Cyclops may have started when ancient people found elephant skulls. The big hole in the middle for the trunk looked like a single giant eye socket!