Amphion

Amphion was, in Greek mythology, a son of Zeus and Antiope. He was the twin brother of Zethus. Amphion is best known for his musical abilities, particularly his skill in playing the lyre.

Legend:

According to myth, after being abandoned as infants, Amphion and Zethus were raised by a shepherd. Amphion grew into a musician, receiving a lyre from Hermes (or Apollo, in some accounts). The music he played was so enchanting that even stones were said to be moved by it. Zethus, in contrast, became a hunter and a man of action.

The Walls of Thebes:

The brothers are most famously associated with the building of the walls of Thebes. Zethus, using his physical strength, carried stones from Mount Cytheron, while Amphion played his lyre. As he played, the stones, charmed by his music, followed him and fell into their proper places, forming the city walls. This tale emphasizes the power of music and the arts, contrasting it with the brute force of manual labor.

Family and Later Life:

Amphion married Niobe, daughter of Tantalus, and they had a large number of children (the exact number varies depending on the account). Niobe boasted of her children’s superiority to Leto, who only had two (Apollo and Artemis). In retaliation, Apollo and Artemis killed all of Niobe's children. This tragedy led to the death of Amphion, either by suicide or by being slain by Apollo.

Symbolism:

Amphion is often seen as a symbol of the civilizing power of music and art, contrasting with the more primitive, raw force represented by his brother Zethus. His story highlights the ability of art to bring order and harmony, even to inanimate objects. He remains a significant figure in Greek mythology, representing the transformative potential of music.