peritides

Peritides were a legendary group of warriors in Greek mythology, primarily associated with the myth of the Argonauts. According to tradition, they were the sons of King Perithous of the Lapiths, a tribe from Thessaly. Their most famous sibling was Theseus, the legendary hero of Athens, who was often depicted as their half-brother or cousin, depending on the version of the myth.

The Peritides were known for their bravery and martial prowess, though their stories are often overshadowed by those of Theseus. One of the most notable myths involving them is their attempt to abduct Helen of Troy, the future wife of Menelaus. This abduction was part of a larger scheme to marry the goddess Persephone, daughter of Demeter, by kidnapping her from the underworld. The gods intervened, and the Peritides were forced to abandon their quest, with some versions stating that they were later punished by being turned into birds or other creatures.

Their name, derived from *Perithous*, means "the one who surrounds" or "the one who encircles," possibly referencing their role in surrounding or defending their homeland. While the Peritides themselves are not as prominently featured in later Greek literature, their connection to Theseus and the Argonauts ensures their place in mythological narratives. Their stories reflect themes of heroism, divine intervention, and the consequences of defying the gods.