Story Summary
Discover how Prince Cadmus followed a sacred cow to Boeotia, defeated Ares' dragon, and sowed teeth to raise an army in the epic legend Cadmus Founds Thebes.
After his sister Europa was spirited away by Zeus, Prince Cadmus of Phoenicia searched the world in vain. Consulting the Oracle at Delphi, he was told to abandon his search and instead follow a cow with moon-shaped markings. Where the animal finally lay down, he was to build a city. Following the beast to the plains of Boeotia, Cadmus prepared a sacrifice but found his men slaughtered by a monstrous dragon guarding a sacred spring of Ares. Cadmus slew the serpent in a fierce battle. Instructed by Athena, he sowed the dragon’s teeth into the earth. From the soil sprang armed warriors, the Spartoi, who fought until only five remained. With these survivors, Cadmus built the citadel of the Cadmeia and founded the great city of Thebes, though he would forever bear the weight of Ares' wrath for killing the sacred beast.
The Moral
Great achievements often require enduring immense loss and overcoming monstrous obstacles through divine wisdom and perseverance.
“Sow the teeth of the dragon, and reap the foundation of a kingdom.”
Fun Fact
Legend credits Cadmus with bringing the Phoenician alphabet to Greece, earning him the title of the man who gave the Greeks the gift of writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Cadmus Founds Thebes?
The story teaches that fulfilling one's destiny requires persistence and divine guidance. It also suggests that great foundations often come at a significant personal cost and through the resolution of conflict.
Why did Cadmus go to Greece?
Cadmus was sent by his father, King Agenor, to find his sister Europa after her abduction by Zeus. His quest eventually led him to the Oracle at Delphi, who told him to stop searching for her and found a city instead.
Who were the Spartoi?
The Spartoi, or 'Sown Men,' were a race of fierce warriors who grew from the dragon's teeth sown by Cadmus. After a violent internal struggle, the five survivors helped Cadmus build Thebes and became its noble elite.
What was the significance of the cow?
The cow was a divine sign from the gods, marked with a white moon on its flank. By following it until it collapsed from exhaustion, Cadmus followed the divine will to the exact location where Thebes was meant to stand.
How did Ares react to the dragon's death?
Ares was enraged because the dragon was his sacred child. As punishment, Cadmus was forced to serve Ares for eight years of penance before he could truly enjoy his kingship and marry Harmonia.
Did Cadmus bring the alphabet to Greece?
Yes, mythological tradition credits Cadmus with introducing the Phoenician alphabet to the Greeks. This 'Cadmean' script is often cited as his most lasting contribution to Western civilization.