Antiope

In Greek mythology, Antiope was the only Amazon known to have married. She was an Amazon queen who was a sister to Hippolyte and Melanippe. During Heracles' ninth labor, his companion Theseus, king of Athens, abducted Antiope and brought her to Athens. They were eventually married and she gave birth to a son; Hippolytus, who was named after Antiope's sister. Soon after, the Amazons attacked Athens in an attempt to rescue Antiope and to take back Hippolyte's girdle; however, the Amazons failed.

Antiope Amazon, Hypsis, Munich, Antikensammlungen, 2423

During this war, Antiope was said to have fought on the side of the Amazons. She was seriously wounded and could no longer defend herself from Theseus and his retainers (which included Heracles). Watching these events take place, Molpadia killed the queen with an arrow (some say spear), saving her from violation by the Athenian king.

Battle of the Amazons, Rubens. The Amazons against Theseus.

In an alternate story, Theseus had planned to marry Phaedra. Antiope was furious about this and decided to attack them on their wedding day. She promised to kill every person in attendance; however, she was slain instead; although, it took Theseus, Heracles, and an army to kill her.

Pausanias

On entering the city there is a monument to Antiope the Amazon. This Antiope, Pindar says, was carried of by Peirithous and Theseus, but Hegias of Troezen gives the following account of her. Heracles was besieging Themiscyra on the Thermodon, but could not take it, but Antiope, falling in love with Theseus, who was aiding Heracles in his campaign, surrendered the stronghold. Such is the account of Hegias. But the Athenians assert that when the Amazons came, Antiope was shot by Molpadia, while Molpadia was killed by Theseus. To Molpadia also there is a monument among the Athenians.

Images of Theseus and Antiope from Eretria

Amazons of Antianara

Amazons of Hipp

Amazons of Lysippe

Amazons of Marpesia

Amazons of Thalestris

Amazons of Valasca

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There is also Antiope, mother of Amphion associated with the mythology of Greek Thebes.

Jupiter and Antiope, Jean-Baptiste Marie Pierre

Jupiter and Antiope, Sir Anthony Van Dyck

Antiope sleeping, Jacob Jordaens

Mythology Images

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