Schoeneus

Schoeneus, in Greek mythology, is a figure primarily associated with the story of Atalanta. He is often described as the father of Atalanta, although some accounts give Iasus as her father.

Schoeneus is typically depicted as a Boeotian king or chieftain who, disappointed that Atalanta was not a son, abandoned her on a mountainside as an infant. The infant Atalanta was then suckled by a she-bear and raised by hunters.

Schoeneus is further known for his connection to Atalanta's famous footrace. Upon reaching adulthood, Atalanta decreed that she would only marry the man who could defeat her in a footrace. Those who lost would be put to death. Schoeneus, whether approving of this arrangement or simply accepting it, is present in accounts of the race and its consequences. The race was ultimately won by Hippomenes (or Melanion in some versions) who used golden apples provided by Aphrodite to distract Atalanta, allowing him to win. Following this, Atalanta and Hippomenes were married. Some accounts state that Schoeneus was pleased by the outcome, others are silent on his reaction.

The character of Schoeneus serves primarily as a narrative device to establish Atalanta's independent spirit and her remarkable abilities. His abandonment of her and the subsequent challenge she poses to potential suitors highlight her strength and defiance of traditional gender roles. His portrayal is typically brief and focused on his relationship with Atalanta, lacking extensive backstory or personal development.