All about the name THETIS

Meaning, origin, history.

Thetis, derived from Ancient Greek origins, was a notable figure in mythology, known primarily for her role as the mother of Achilles, one of the central characters in Homer's Iliad. She was a nymph, daughter of the god Nereus and his wife Doris. In myth, Thetis was renowned for her extraordinary beauty and grace, which caught the attention of many prominent gods and heroes.

One notable aspect of Thetis' story is her role in the creation of Achilles. According to myth, it was prophesied that any son she bore would be greater than his father. To prevent this prophecy from coming true, Zeus attempted to seduce Thetis. However, she refused his advances, fleeing to her father's underwater palace. In a bid to discourage further pursuit, Nereus revealed that if Thetis bore a child, it would be invulnerable except for its heel, through which its mother held it while immersing it in the river Styx to grant it immortality.

Thetis eventually married Peleus, a mortal king of Thessaly. Despite his mortal status, Peleus was chosen by Thetis due to his virtue and strength. Their son Achilles grew up to be one of the greatest warriors in the Trojan War, thanks largely to Thetis' efforts to make him invulnerable.

Thetis also played a significant role during the Trojan War itself. When her son was killed by Paris, she went to Olympus to appeal to Zeus and demand justice for Achilles' death. Her grief and anger were so great that they moved even the other gods, who joined her in mourning.

In art and literature, Thetis has been depicted as a tragic figure, embodying the sorrow of maternal loss. She remains an important figure in the mythological narrative of ancient Greece, serving as a symbol of divine beauty, power, and maternal love.