Crius (Krios): The Pillar of the South in Greek Mythology

In the vast tapestry of Greek mythology, where gods and titans often take center stage, Crius, sometimes overshadowed, stands as a pillar of the South. This Titan, though not as frequently mentioned as Zeus or Poseidon, has a rich history and significance that’s worth exploring.

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Crius Key Facts

ParentsUranus (Sky) and Gaia (Earth)
PartnersEurybia
SiblingsCoeus, The Intellectual Pillar of the Celestial North, Hyperion, The Titan Illuminating, Iapetus, Oceanus, and the other Titans, Cyclopes, One-Eyed Giant Monsters and Hecatonchires, The Hundred-Handed Giants
OffspringAstraios, Pallas, and Perses
Other namesKrios
Roman nameCrius
The God ofConstellations and the Pillar of the South
SymbolsRam

Name and Etymology

The name “Crius” or “Krios” is believed to be derived from the Greek word meaning “ram,” which is the very creature that the constellation Aries represents. This linguistic connection is the primary basis for the association between the Titan Crius and the constellation.

In Roman mythology, he retains the same name, a rarity among Greek deities who often undergo a name change when transitioning to Roman tales. Among his epithets, he’s often referred to as the “Pillar of the South,” emphasizing his association with the southern direction and constellations.

Aries in the Sky

Aries is one of the constellations of the zodiac. It’s symbolized by the ram and is particularly notable in Greek mythology because of the Golden Fleece’s story, which involves a winged ram that played a pivotal role in the adventures of Jason, The Leader Of The Argonauts. The constellation’s presence in the sky, especially its visibility during the spring season, marks the start of the new year in the ancient Greek calendar.

Crius and the other Titans in "Fall of the Titans" painting.
Peter Paul Rubens, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Crius’ Family and Childhood

Ah, the family of Crius; a tale as old as time. Born to Uranus, the embodiment of the sky, and Gaia, the very essence of the Earth, Crius was one of the original Titans. These primordial beings were the forerunners to the Olympian gods and played pivotal roles in shaping the cosmos.

His birth, like that of his siblings, was not without its drama. Uranus, fearing the power of his offspring, imprisoned them within Gaia. This act of treachery set the stage for a cosmic rebellion, leading to the eventual overthrow of Uranus by his son Cronus.

As for Crius’ younger days, much remains shrouded in mystery. However, it’s believed that he, along with his siblings, played a crucial role in establishing the order of the universe, with Crius becoming the very pillar of the southern sky.

Wife and Offspring

Eurybia, the daughter of Pontus (Sea) and Gaia (Earth), was not just Crius’ partner but also his confidante. Together, they bore several children, each significant in their own right. Their union symbolized the merging of the sky and the sea, a testament to the interconnectedness of all things in Greek mythology.

With his wife Eurybia, Crius had three sons, Astraios, Pallas and Perses. They were all noteworthy gods and also went on to have several well known children of their own.

Astraios

A deity of dusk, stars, and planets, Astraios (‘From the Stars’) was a significant figure in Greek myths. He married Eos, the goddess of the dawn, and their union brought forth the winds and several celestial bodies.

Pallas

Pallas, often associated with warcraft, was a Titan known for his strength and strategy. He married to Styx, The Goddess of the Underworld River, and their offspring played crucial roles during the Titanomachy, the great war between the Titans and the Olympians.

Perses

Perses, the Titan god of destruction, was another noteworthy offspring of Crius. He married Asteria, and their union gave birth to Hecate, the goddess of magic, crossroads, and the moon.

Depiction And Characteristics

When we think of Crius, we often envision a figure of immense stature, embodying the vastness of the southern sky he represents.

Appearance

The Titan Crius is often depicted as a robust and towering figure, with a crown resembling a ram, symbolizing his association with the constellation Aries. His eyes, deep and vast, mirror the endless expanse of the night sky. Around him, stars shimmer, reflecting his dominion over constellations. The ram, his primary symbol, often accompanies him, emphasizing his strength and leadership among the Titans.

Personality

While not as frequently mentioned as some of his Titan siblings, those who’ve delved into ancient texts can attest to Crius’ unwavering loyalty and sense of duty. He was steadfast, often serving as a grounding force among his more volatile brethren. The ancient Greeks viewed him as a beacon of stability, his position in the southern sky a constant amidst the ever-changing cosmos.

Powers

As a Titan, Crius wielded immense power. His dominion over the southern constellations granted him influence over the stars and their movements. Ancient Greeks believed that he could command the very fabric of the night sky. In times of celestial unrest, when stars would fall or comets would blaze across the horizon, many would offer prayers to Crius, seeking his intervention and guidance.

Crius’ Symbols, Animals or Plants

The ram stands as the most iconic symbol associated with Crius. This association likely stems from the constellation Aries, which falls under his domain. The ram, in Greek culture, symbolized leadership, strength, and determination—all traits befitting a Titan of Crius’ stature.

Furthermore, certain ancient texts hint at Crius being linked with specific plants, particularly those that bloom under the starry night. The night-blooming cereus, a flower that unfurls its petals only after dusk, is sometimes associated with him, symbolizing the beauty and mysteries of the night.

Crius’ Roles And Responsibilities

Crius, as the Pillar of the South, had a significant responsibility: maintaining the balance and order of the southern sky. This role was no mere title; it was a duty that required constant vigilance. The stars and constellations under his watch were not just celestial bodies; they were markers for sailors, guides for farmers, and symbols for countless rituals and traditions.

Moreover, Crius played a pivotal role during the Titanomachy. While not as aggressive as some of his siblings, he provided strategic counsel, leveraging his vast knowledge of the cosmos to aid the Titans.

Lastly, as a father, Crius bore the responsibility of guiding and nurturing his offspring, ensuring they played their parts in the grand tapestry of Greek mythology.

Myths about Crius

One cannot delve into the tales of Crius without touching upon the myths that surround him. While not as prolific as some other figures, the stories of Crius offer a unique glimpse into the world of the Titans.

The great war between the Titans and the Olympians, known as the Titanomachy, saw him play a role. While he did not engage in direct combat as fervently as some, his strategic insights were invaluable. However, like many of his Titan brethren, he faced imprisonment in Tartarus after their defeat.

Crius In Ancient Greek Religion

High atop certain mountains, where the southern sky seemed almost within reach, ancient Greeks believed Crius was closest. These sites became places of reflection, where one could gaze upon the vastness of the cosmos and feel the Titan’s protective gaze.

During specific star alignments or meteor showers, ceremonies honoring the Titan would take place. These events, filled with music, dance, and stargazing, celebrated the mysteries and wonders of the night sky.

Representations Of Crius In Art

Throughout ancient Greece, Crius was depicted in various artworks, from grand murals to intricate pottery designs. Often, he was shown surrounded by stars, with the ram prominently featured. These artistic representations served as a testament to his influence and the awe he inspired.

Mentions in Ancient Texts

One of the primary sources that mention Crius is Hesiod’s “Theogony.” In this ancient text, he is identified as one of the Titans, the offspring of Gaia (Earth) and Uranus (Sky). Hesiod provides a genealogical account, detailing that Crius fathered Astraios, Pallas, and Perses with Eurybia, the daughter of Gaia and Pontus (Sea). The union of Astraios with Eos (Dawn) resulted in the birth of Eosphoros, Hesperus, Astraea, other stars, and the winds. This text is essential in understanding the lineage and relationships of the Titans in Greek mythology.

Various Greek and Roman mythological handbooks, such as those by Diodorus of Sicily, Apollodorus, and Hyginus, make references to Crius. These handbooks provide rationalized accounts of the myths of the Titans and often include genealogical details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Crius’ primary role among the Titans?

Crius was known as the Pillar of the South, responsible for the southern constellations and their movements.

Did Crius have any significant temples dedicated to him?

While not as numerous as some deities, there were specific sites, especially atop mountains, where Crius’ presence was profoundly felt.

How did the ancient Greeks view Crius?

He was seen as a beacon of stability, representing the constant southern sky amidst the ever-changing cosmos.

Was Crius involved in the Titanomachy?

Yes, he played a strategic role during the great war between the Titans and the Olympians.

Who were Crius’ most notable offspring?

His children included Astraios, Pallas, and Perses, each significant in their own right within Greek mythology.

Featured Image Credit: Henrique, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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Evangelia

Evangelia Hatzitsinidou is the creator and author of www.greek-gods.info which has been merged with Olympioi.com. She has been writing about Greek Mythology for almost twenty years. A native to Greece, she teaches and lives just outside Athens.