Phineus

legendary king

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July 2, 2026

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Phineus was a legendary king in Greek mythology, known for his suffering at the hands of the Harpies. These creatures, initially depicted as wind spirits, were later described as foul birds with women's faces. They tormented Phineus by snatching his food and leaving a disgusting stench, making his life unbearable.1

The sons of Boreas, Calais and Zetes, eventually freed Phineus from this torment. This episode is part of the larger legend of Jason and the Argonauts, who encountered Phineus seeking his guidance on how to navigate the treacherous Symplegades, or Cyanean rocks.12

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Argonaut
…Euxine Sea the Argonauts met Phineus, the blind and aged king whose food was constantly polluted by the Harpies. After being freed by the winged sons of Boreas, Phineus told them the course to Colchis and how to pass through the Symplegades, or Cyanean rocks—two cliffs that moved on their…
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…Euxine Sea the Argonauts met Phineus, the blind and aged king whose food was constantly polluted by the Harpies. After being freed by the winged sons of Boreas, Phineus told them the course to Colchis and how to pass through the Symplegades, or Cyanean rocks—two cliffs that moved on their…
Read More