The Calydonian Boar is one of the most famous monstrous beasts in Greek mythology, sent by Artemis to ravage the land of Calydon as divine punishment. It was ultimately hunted in a legendary expedition featuring some of the greatest Greek heroes, including Atalanta and Meleager. Its myth is a tale of wrath, glory, jealousy, and tragic fallout.
Meaning and Etymology
Named after the region of Calydon in Aetolia, the boar’s title reflects its mythic setting. The Greek word for boar (kapros) often symbolizes primal chaos and divine vengeance.
Description and Abilities
- Towering boar of immense size, with tusks like spears and impenetrable hide.
- Could uproot trees and destroy entire fields in a rampage.
- Ferocious, untamable, and divinely empowered by Artemis to punish mortal pride.
- Brought famine and death to the countryside.
Origin and Family
- Sent by Artemis – After King Oeneus neglected to honor her in seasonal sacrifices, Artemis unleashed the beast on Calydon.
- No parents are named, but its divine origin suggests magical or semi-divine properties.
Mythological Appearances
- The Calydonian Boar Hunt – King Oeneus gathers heroes including Meleager, Atalanta, Castor, Pollux, Nestor, Theseus, and Jason. Atalanta wounds the boar first, Meleager kills it. Tension erupts when he awards the hide to Atalanta, leading to a deadly quarrel with his uncles and eventually his own death.
- Ovid’s Metamorphoses – The hunt and its tragic aftermath are retold in vivid poetic detail.
- Apollodorus’ Library – Provides a structured account of the hunt and the myth’s central figures.
Modern Appearances
Literature
- Percy Jackson’s Greek Heroes by Rick Riordan – Retells the Calydonian Boar Hunt with a modern, witty tone; highlights Atalanta and Meleager’s doomed connection.
- Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths by Bernard Evslin – Includes the boar hunt as one of the epic exploits.
- The Hunt of the Calydonian Boar (graphic retellings) – Found in illustrated mythology collections geared to young adults and educators.
Film and Television
- Xena: Warrior Princess – A boar hunt episode alludes to the Calydonian legend through a monstrous boar and female hunter.
Video Games
- Assassin’s Creed Odyssey – The Daughters of Artemis questline features the Calydonian Boar as a legendary boss fight with unique loot and challenge mechanics.
- Fate/Grand Order – References to Atalanta include nods to the Calydonian Hunt in visual novel scenes and boar-based animations.
- Smite – Artemis’s boar companion “Tusky” and legendary skins pay tribute to the Calydonian myth.
Other Media
- Greek Myth Board Games – Mythic Battles: Pantheon and Argonauts feature legendary monsters like the Calydonian Boar as battle bosses or event creatures.
- Toys & Educational Kits – Greek mythology-themed sets often include Meleager and boar figures, especially in collectible kits or learning bundles.
- Museums and Documentaries – Documentaries on mythology and ancient Greek hunting culture frequently reference the Calydonian Boar as an allegory of man vs. nature.