Iphicles
heroIphicles was the mortal twin brother of Heracles — born the same night to the same mother but fathered by a mortal, creating the perfect contrast to divine strength.
The Myth
On the night Zeus visited Alcmene disguised as Amphitryon, the real Amphitryon returned afterward. Alcmene bore twins: Heracles (son of Zeus, divine) and Iphicles (son of Amphitryon, mortal). When Hera sent serpents to kill baby Heracles, Iphicles screamed in terror while Heracles strangled them — instantly revealing which twin was mortal. Iphicles served faithfully alongside Heracles and died fighting at his side.
Parents
Amphitryon and Alcmene
Children
Symbols
Fun Fact
The serpent test of the twins — one screams, one strangles — was one of the most popular scenes in Greek nursery art.
Explore Further
Alcmene
heroAlcmene was the mortal woman whom Zeus seduced by disguising himself as her husband — she bore...
Amphitryon
heroAmphitryon was the mortal husband of Alcmene whose identity Zeus stole for one night — making...
Hera
godQueen of the Olympian gods and goddess of marriage. Known for her jealous rages against Zeus's...
Heracles
heroThe greatest hero of Greek mythology, son of Zeus and the mortal Alcmene. Famous for his...
Io
heroIo was a priestess of Hera whom Zeus seduced and then transformed into a white cow to hide from his...
Iolaus
heroIolaus was Heracles' beloved nephew and charioteer who helped him slay the Hydra by cauterising the...