Lamus (mythology)

Lamus (Λάμος) is a figure in Greek mythology, primarily associated with the Laestrygonians, a tribe of cannibal giants encountered by Odysseus in Homer's Odyssey.

According to the Odyssey (Book 10), Lamus was the eponymous founder of Telepylus, the city of the Laestrygonians. This Telepylus is described as a place where day and night follow each other in quick succession, suggesting a location far to the north or perhaps a mythical realm outside the normal bounds of the world. It is also described as having a spring named Artacia.

The Laestrygonians, ruled by their king Antiphates (whose name may be related to "anti-fate" or "against fate"), were hostile and devoured many of Odysseus's men and destroyed all but one of his ships. Lamus is therefore indirectly associated with this act of cannibalism and the destruction of Odysseus's fleet.

While Lamus is a relatively minor character, his significance lies in his connection to the fearsome Laestrygonians, representing a threat to civilization and a perilous obstacle in Odysseus's journey home. His name helps to establish the Laestrygonians as a distinct and frightening people with a legendary origin. He is not a deity or a hero in the traditional sense, but rather a founder figure linked to a monstrous race.