Greek Heroes » Linus, the Music teacher of Heracles
Linus was one of the greatest musicians of his time and the Music teacher of Heracles Linus, the Music teacher of Heracles in greek mythology Family of Linus Linus and Heracles The Death of Linus

Linos was a handsome young man and one of the greatest musicians of his time. He is said to be the inventor of the stringed lyre, and the sound and melody in general.

Family of Linus

Linus was a child of Apollo, the god of Music and a Muse(probably Urania or Calliope). His brother was the musician and poet Orpheus.

Linus and Heracles

Linus was the one who taught the Greek hero Heracles and his brother Iphicles the alphabet and music, particularly the playing of the lyre.

One day, while Heracles was trying to play the lyre properly, Linos dared to make his student a remark. Suddenly, Heracles lost his temper and killed Orpheus, Linus' brother, with a blow from his lyre*.

The Death of Linus

Linus himself was killed at a very young age by his father Apollo because he was boasting that he was equal to the god. Linus was buried most probably at the Greek city of Argos or Thebes. The ones who felt the most intense grief for Linus were the Muses. According to the legend, they kept mourning over his loss for a long, long time.

Sources: the Library of Apollodorus