Tyndareus

In Greek mythology, Tyndareus (/tɪnˈdɛriəs/; Ancient Greek: Τυνδάρεος, Attic Τυνδάρεως Greek pronunciation: [tyndáreɔːs]) was a Spartan king, son of Oebalus (or Perieres) and Gorgophone (or Bateia), husband of Leda (Λήδα), father of Castor, Clytemnestra, Timandra, Phoebe and Philonoe, and stepfather of Helen of Troy and Pollux.

Tyndareus had a brother named Hippocoon, who seized power and exiled Tyndareus. He was reinstated by Heracles, who killed Hippocoon and his sons. Tyndareus’ other brother was Icarius, the father of Penelope.

Tyndareus’ wife Leda was seduced by Zeus, who disguised himself as a swan. She laid two eggs, each producing two children.