Anthippe

Anthippe is a relatively obscure proper noun, most frequently encountered as a feminine given name in classical mythology. Information about individuals bearing this name is fragmented across various sources and often conflated, making a definitive, singular characterization difficult.

Mythologically, Anthippe is associated with several figures, though their relationships and stories are often intertwined or vary depending on the source:

• Anthippe (Queen of Thespiae): This Anthippe is sometimes mentioned as the wife of King Thespius of Thespiae and the mother of fifty daughters, who were all impregnated by Heracles (Hercules) in a single night. This story is a cornerstone of the mythology surrounding Heracles's labors and lineage. Variations exist regarding the mother's name; some sources attribute the role to other figures or use alternative spellings.

• Anthippe (Amazon): Accounts exist of an Amazon warrior named Anthippe. In some versions, she is identified with Hippolyta, queen of the Amazons, and the object of one of Heracles's labors (to retrieve her girdle/belt). The confusion between Anthippe and Hippolyta highlights the inconsistent nature of details within classical narratives.

Due to the scarcity and variability of information, it's challenging to establish a comprehensive profile of any single Anthippe. The name, therefore, primarily serves as a marker within broader mythological cycles and genealogical lineages rather than denoting a well-defined, individual character. The usage and significance of "Anthippe" are often contingent upon the specific myth or author referencing it.