Eteocles

[ ih-tee-uh-kleez ]

noun

, Classical Mythology.

1. a son of Oedipus and the brother of Polynices, by whom he was slain. Compare Seven against Thebes ( def 1 ).

Eteocles

/ ˈɛtɪə-; ɪˈtiːəˌkliːz /

noun

1. Greek myth a son of Oedipus and Jocasta. He expelled his brother Polynices from Thebes; they killed each other in single combat when Polynices returned as leader of the Seven against Thebes

Example Sentences

One of those brothers lies in state: Eteocles, the original claimant to the throne.

From Salon

There was Eteocles, a son of Oedipus in Greek mythology, who remained on the throne of Thebes, reneging on his promise to share it with his twin brother, leading to a battle in which they killed each other.

From New York Times

Eteocles defended the gate which Polyneices attacked, and Antigone and Ismene within the palace waited to hear which had killed the other.

From Literature

If Eteocles was the victor, the Argive Army would withdraw; if Eteocles was conquered, Polyneices should be king.

From Literature

Neither was victor; they killed each other, Eteocles dying looked upon his brother and wept; he had no strength to speak.

From Literature