Hercules and Nessus

Centaur

Mythical figure, half man (upper body) and half horse (lower body)

Nessus

A centaur in Greek mythology, killed by Hercules as he kidnapped Deianira

What was the river Hercules had to cross with Deianira?

River Euneus

How is Nessus initially described?

‘Strong of limb’

How does Hercules refer to Nessus?

‘Twice formed’

Who is the founder of the centaur race?

Ixion

Who is Nessus’ father?

Centaurus

How does Hercules kill Nessus?

He shot an arrow dipped in the venom of the Lerneaen Hydra

What does Nessus do as revenge?

Gives Deianira his cloak soaked in venom-filled blood

How is Rumour described?

‘Laoquatious’

What did Rumour tell Deianira?

Hercules was in love with Iola

Who does Deianira refer to as ‘that adultress’?

Iola

What does Deianira give Hercules via a servant?

The blood stained shirt of Nessus

Why does Deianira give this gift?

She thinks it will restore his waning love

Who is the servant that gives Hercules the cloak?

Lichas

Where did Hercules take Deianira after winning her hand?

To his native city, then he came to cross the River Euneus

What were the issues with crossing the river?

The flood was higher than normal, Deianira couldn’t swim, the river was fast-flowing, and Hercules was anxious for his bride

What does Nessus offer to do to help Hercules?

Take Deianira across the river - Hercules allows this

Why does Hercules tell Nessus not to steal Deianira?

Even if he has no respect for Hercules, he says not to kidnap Deianira as Ixion would never approve of Nessus’ and Deianira’s marriage

What does Nessus do after Hercules calls after him?

Tries to flee

What happens after the Nessus and Hercules battle?

Time passes and tales of mighty Hercules fill the world - then a rumour is spread that Hercules has a passion for Iole

How does Deianira react to the rumours?

She believes them; is terrified at first, then decides to do something about it by killing the adulteress, but first she sends a gift to Hercules to revive his love

Why does Nessus kidnap Deianira?

He falls in love with her

Who is Iola?

The daughter of King Eurytus