The Constellation
Eridanus |
 |
 |
Mythology and History |
 |
 |
The River. |
|
It's difficult now to identify which river the constellation
represents; some writers claimed it was the Tigris or Euphrates, others
the Nile. And Homer called it an "ocean stream". In fact, it may originally
have been a mythic river, not meant to be identified with any geographical
site. Eridanus might represent the Sumerian Strong River, also known as
Ariadan. Or it might be one of more of any other important rivers--the
Ganges, Po, Euphrates, or Nile. |
|
The story goes that Phaethon, son of Apollo the Sun God,
pestered his father to allow him to drive the celestial chariot across
the skies one day. The sun was seen as carried daily on a chariot
driven by Apollo. Phaethon was encouraged by his sisters and even
his own mother. But Apollo always refused, knowing that his son was far
from ready to assume that awesome responsibility. |
However under the constant pleading
by Phaethon, Apollo eventually allowed the request. So one day Phaethon
climbed into the chariot, which was drawn by two white horses, grasped
the reins and set off across the skies. It was soon apparent that Phaethon
was incapable of controlling the horses, as they galloped so high in the
sky that the earth was close to freezing, then they plunged so close to
the earth that the fields were burnt.
Zeus soon had enough of this nonsense
and sent a thunderbolt, killing the young man. His burning body fell to
Earth and landed in the River Eridanus. His sisters, for having encouraged
him in this foolhardy adventure, were changed into poplar trees which stood
along its banks.
back to Constellation Table
- Planetarium Home Page
|
