tiles


Note:  Do not rely on this information. It is very old.

Amphitryon

Amphitryon, King of Tiryns, in Argolis, son of Alcaeus assisted Electryon of Mycenae against the Teleboii, and was honoured with the hand of Alcmene. Whilst he was leading the Thebans against the AEtolians, Zeus assumed his form and his conjugal rights, with the result that Heracles and Iphicles were born. Hence his name has become a household word in connection with hospitality. On his return he found Zeus entertaining a party, and when he claimed his position as master of the house the guests supported the giver of the feast. Moliere adopted the story in one of his plays, whence the expression, "Le veritable Amphitryon et l'Amphitryon chez qui l'on dine."