THAMYRIS

also spelled Thamyras, in Greek mythology, a Thracian poet who loved the beautiful youth Hyacinthus (q.v.). Thamyris' attentions, however, were rivaled by those of the god Apollo, who jealously reported to the Muses the boast by Thamyris that he could surpass them in song. Upon hearing the claim, the Muses immediately blinded Thamyris and robbed him of his voice and his talent.