Megareus

Megareus (Ancient Greek: Μεγαρεύς) is a name appearing in Greek mythology, associated with multiple figures, primarily in the region of Boeotia and Athens. Distinguishing between these figures can be challenging due to the limited and often conflicting information from ancient sources.

One prominent Megareus is considered a son of Poseidon and Iphinoe, daughter of Alcathous, king of Megara. This Megareus is often credited with saving Megara from a Boeotian invasion. He married Iocaste, and they had children, including Hippomenes (sometimes attributed to Maeon).

Another Megareus is linked to Thebes. He is mentioned in some accounts as a son of Creon, the king of Thebes, and possibly Eurydice. This Megareus is said to have died defending Thebes against the Seven Against Thebes. His sacrifice was sometimes presented as crucial to the city's survival. The story of his death is referenced in various accounts of the Theban cycle.

Due to the overlapping names and limited historical evidence, separating the actions and identities of the different Megareuses is difficult. Mythological accounts frequently blend and diverge, resulting in ambiguity concerning the precise roles and family relationships of these figures. The name itself suggests a connection to Megara, but individuals bearing the name appear in other regions of Greece, highlighting the complexities of tracing mythological genealogies.