Scylla and Charybdis
-SkyllaandCharybdisare two of the most famous and terrifying monsters of Greek mythology. They resided across the opposite sides of a narrow sea passage, making each passage extremely dangerous. This passage is associated with mythical naval adventures, such as those ofJason,Odysseus andPraise.
From their co-existence the timeless expression was born"between Scylla and Charybdis", stating a situation where each option leads to serious risk.
Charybdis in Greek Mythology
-Charybdisis considered the oldest of the two monsters. Usually referred to as his daughterPontusandGaia, although in some traditions he is presented as his daughterPoseidonand Gaia.
Charybdis – The personification of the vortex
Harybdi was the mythological personification of aGiant Marine Warp. Three times a day she sucked and released huge quantities of water, capable of swallowing entire ships. Her move was associated mythologically with the tides.
Harybdi’s punishment
In later myths, Harybdi was not born a monster buttransformedByZeus:
either for stealing his oxenHercules
or because it helped Poseidon expand his maritime sovereignty against Zeus
In some traditions, Charybdis is considered andMother of the Scylla, which enhances their close mythological connection.
Scylla in Greek Mythology
-SkyllaHe is most often presented as the daughter of the ancient sea godForkyandKetus (Krataidas), who were parents and other sea monsters, such asGraeae andGorgons.
The form of the Dog
Scylla is described as:
plasma with12 feet
six long necks
six heads full of sharp teeth
voiceHe barked like a dog
Whatever ships were getting too close, they lost crew members, which Scylla grabbed and devoured.
Symbolism
Scylla is considered personificationdangerous rocks or reefs, that could destroy the ships of antiquity.
The Transfiguration of the Scylla
Although often considered a born monster, in later myths Scylla was originallybeautiful sea nymph.
The Amphitrite Version
-Amphitre, his wifePoseidon, he envied the attention God showed to Scylla and poisoned the water in which she bathed, causing her transformation.
Version of Circe
The most famous version is about the witchCirce.
The sea godGlaucus, in love with Scylla, he asked Circe for a love potion. But she, in love with Glaucus, gave him poison, which transformed Scylla into a monster.
The Pass of Scylla and Charybdis
The two monsters lived on the opposite sides of a narrow passage, less than the range of an arrow. No ship could pass without casualties.
This passage is usually identified with theStrait of Messene, between Italy and Sicily.
Heroes who faced Scylla and Charybdis
Jason and Argonauts
With her helpHera,TheAthenaandNitrides, -ArgoIt passed safely.
Hercules
He killed Scylla when she stole his oxen, but Forkys' father brought her back to life.
Odysseus
Following her adviceCirce, he preferred to pass near Scylla, losingsix menInstead of being completely destroyed by Charybdis.
Aeneas
He managed to cross the pass with strength and persistence in the oars.
Conclusion
Scylla and Charybdis are powerful symbols ofMarine risks,unavoidable lossanddilemmas without ideal solution. Their presence in mythology explains both physical phenomena and deeper human experiences.
George Bibas
Written by George Biba — Researcher and creator of Mythoi.org, on the subject of Greek mythology, ancient religion and heroic myths.