Calydon (son of Ares)

Calydon was a figure in Greek mythology, primarily known as the eponymous founder and king of the city of Calydon in Aetolia. He was the son of Ares, the god of war, and Astyoche (or Epicaste, in some accounts). His lineage, tracing back to Ares, established him as a powerful figure, and his founding of Calydon solidified his legacy.

Calydon is most prominently featured in accounts of the Calydonian Boar Hunt, a famous episode in Greek myth. He offended Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, either by failing to offer her proper sacrifices or by forgetting to include her in a specific feast. Enraged, Artemis sent a monstrous boar to ravage the countryside of Calydon, destroying crops, killing livestock and people, and generally wreaking havoc.

Faced with this devastation, Calydon summoned the bravest heroes in Greece to hunt and kill the boar. This group included Meleager (who was, according to some traditions, Calydon's son), Atalanta, Theseus, Jason, Peleus, and many others. The hunt was eventually successful, with Atalanta striking the first blow and Meleager delivering the killing blow.

The killing of the boar, however, led to further tragedy. Meleager awarded the hide and head of the boar to Atalanta, as she had drawn first blood. This act sparked a dispute among the heroes, particularly Meleager's uncles, who felt that a woman should not receive such an honor. This dispute escalated into a fierce battle, during which Meleager killed his uncles. In revenge, Meleager's mother, Althaea, avenged her brothers' deaths by burning the magical log that was tied to Meleager's life. Meleager died, and Calydon was once again thrown into mourning and conflict.

Beyond the Calydonian Boar Hunt, not much is recorded about Calydon's life and reign. He is remembered primarily for his connection to this significant mythological event and for establishing the city that bears his name.