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Did Poseidon Cheat on His Wife?

Published in Greek Mythology 2 mins read

Yes, Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, did cheat on his wife, Amphitrite.

Poseidon's marital infidelity is a recurring theme in Greek mythology. While married to Amphitrite, daughter of Oceanus and Tethys, he engaged in numerous affairs with both goddesses and mortal women. This behavior mirrors that of his brother, Zeus, who was also notorious for his extramarital relationships.

Here's a breakdown:

  • His Wife: Amphitrite was the goddess of the sea and Poseidon's queen.

  • Examples of Affairs: Poseidon's affairs are numerous and varied. Some notable examples include:

    • Medusa: One of the most famous stories involves Poseidon's affair with Medusa in a temple of Athena, which ultimately led to Athena transforming Medusa into a Gorgon.
    • Demeter: He pursued Demeter, who tried to avoid him by transforming into a mare. Poseidon then transformed into a stallion and forced himself upon her, resulting in the birth of Areion.
    • Various Nymphs and Mortals: Numerous nymphs and mortal women also appear in accounts of Poseidon's romantic escapades.
  • Consequences: While Amphitrite often displayed jealousy, there is no specific instance where she directly and powerfully punished his lovers in the same way Hera punished Zeus' lovers.

In conclusion, it is well-documented in Greek mythology that Poseidon was unfaithful to his wife, Amphitrite, and engaged in many affairs.

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