Perseus and Andromeda
Returning from the quest for Medusa, Perseus finds Andromeda exposed to a sea monster and rescues her.
The Story
After killing Medusa, Perseus began the journey home.
During his travels he encountered Andromeda.
She was the daughter of King Cepheus and Queen Cassiopeia.
Cassiopeia had offended the sea deities through a boast concerning beauty.
A sea monster was sent against the kingdom.
An oracle declared that Andromeda must be exposed to the monster.
Perseus found her bound and awaiting death.
He agreed to rescue her.
When the monster appeared, Perseus attacked and killed it.
Andromeda was freed.
Perseus then married her.
The rescue became one of the most famous adventures associated with Perseus outside the killing of Medusa.
The story also continued the hero's dynasty.
Perseus and Andromeda became ancestors of an important Argive royal line that would eventually include Heracles.
Key Figures
Why It Matters
The rescue of Andromeda completes another major stage of the Perseus cycle and links his heroic adventures with the genealogy leading toward Heracles.
Traditions & Variations
Ancient accounts differ over the location, the nature of Cassiopeia's offence and details of Perseus' battle with the monster.