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214 probably served as the foundation of the classical myth concerning Hercules and the Lernæan Hydra.

Burritt tells us that this constellation was intended to immortalise the name of Hercules the Theban, the son of Jupiter and Alcmena. By the poets Hercules was often referred to as "Alcides," possibly derived from Alcæus, the name of his grandfather.

Even in his infancy, Hercules displayed great courage and strength, for it is related that he rose in his cradle and strangled the serpents sent by Juno to destroy him. He was educated by the centaur Chiron, and when eighteen years of age commenced a career that was destined to immortalise him. Hercules was subjected to the will of Eurystheus, and at his behest performed the wonderful feats of strength and agility that have been universally known as "the twelve labours of Hercules." In addition to the performance of these arduous duties he found time to accompany the Argonauts to Colchis, assisted the gods in their war against the giants, conquered Laomedon, and pillaged Troy. Unfortunately the hero was subject to fits of insanity, and when these seized him performed many rash deeds. One of these was his attempt to carry off the sacred tripod from Apollo's temple at Delphi. As a punishment for his misdeeds he was sold as a slave to Queen Omphale of Lydia, and it is said was often observed spinning with the Queen's maidens in the women's hall subsequently he married the Queen.

He re-established his friend Tyndarus on the throne of Sparta, and for his second wife married Dejanira, a sister of Meleager, and took up his abode in the court of Ceyx, King of Trachina. As Hercules was setting out on some journey his wife unwittingly presented him with a cloak which she had received from the centaur Nessus, whom Hercules had slain for insulting Dejanira. This garment proved to be poisoned. Hercules was infected, and feeling his end approaching, resolved to die a death worthy of a famous hero. He erected a great funeral pyre on Mt. Œta.