[Greek heroic] Pirithous was the son of Dia and Ixion or Zeus, and his best friend was Theseus, slayer of the Minotaur. He was related to the Centaurs, who were descended from Ixion. Along with Achilles and Patroclus, and Orestes and Pylades, Pirithous and the Athenian hero Theseus have one of the most famous male friendships in classical mythology. Pirithous was a Lapith prince when Theseus was the king of Athens. Before the two met, Pirithous had heard about Theseus' reputation for strength and bravery. He wanted proof of this reputation, so he drove Theseus' cattle from Marathon. As Pirithous expected, Theseus set out in armed pursuit. Pirithous, also armed, turned to meet his pursuer. However, as the men confronted each other, both were so impressed by the other's beauty and daring that they did not fight. Instead, Pirithous invited Theseus to assign punishment for the robbery. Theseus forgave the theft, and the two took oaths to forever be friends and brothers in arms. The pair hel...
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