Anteias

Anteias is a figure in Greek mythology, primarily known through the writings of the Bibliotheca of Pseudo-Apollodorus. He was one of the sons of Poseidon, the god of the sea, and Gaia, the goddess of the earth. Anteias resided in Libya and was famed for his wrestling prowess.

His defining characteristic was his reliance on his mother, Gaia, for strength. Whenever he touched the earth, he was rejuvenated and became stronger. He used this ability to challenge travelers to wrestling matches, and when he defeated them, he would kill them. He used their skulls to build a temple to his father, Poseidon.

Anteias was ultimately defeated by Heracles (Hercules) as one of his Twelve Labors. Heracles realized that Anteias drew his strength from contact with the earth. To overcome this advantage, Heracles lifted Anteias into the air, preventing him from touching the ground, and then crushed him to death. This event is often depicted in art and literature as a symbolic representation of the triumph of intellect and strategy over brute force.

The story of Anteias is often interpreted as an allegory about the power of the earth and the importance of grounding oneself, but also the vulnerability that comes from relying too heavily on a single source of strength. It also highlights the cunning and resourcefulness of Heracles, a recurring theme in his mythology.