Astraeus (mythology)

In Greek mythology, Astraeus (Ancient Greek: Ἀστραῖος, Astraios) is a Titan god associated with the dusk, stars, and winds. He is generally considered the son of Crius and Eurybia.

Astraeus is primarily known through his role as the father of the four directional winds (Anemoi): Boreas (North Wind), Notus (South Wind), Zephyrus (West Wind), and Eurus (East Wind). He is also sometimes credited as the father of the stars and planets. His consort is typically Eos, the goddess of the dawn.

Although not a central figure in many well-known myths, Astraeus represents a fundamental aspect of the cosmos – the transition between day and night and the celestial bodies associated with the night sky. He symbolizes the order and forces of nature that govern the celestial sphere. Accounts of his involvement in the Titanomachy are scarce, with most focus placed on the more prominent Titans. However, as a Titan, he likely participated in the war against the Olympian gods. His absence from many major narratives likely stems from the focus on the more anthropomorphic and actively interventionist deities.

In summary, Astraeus, while not a highly detailed figure in Greek mythology, holds a symbolic position as the god of dusk, the father of the winds, and an associated figure with the stars and planets, representing the celestial transition and the forces of nature.