Hippodamia and her sons, Atreus and Thyestes, were banished by Pelops due to the tragic death of Chrysippus, a son of Pelops. Their banishment was a direct consequence of the events surrounding this death and Pelops' subsequent grief and wrath.
The Circumstances of Their Banishment
The banishment of Hippodamia and her sons stems from a dark chapter in the mythical lineage of Pelops:
- The Death of Chrysippus: In some traditions, the mother, Hippodamia, was solely responsible for the killing of Chrysippus. This act deeply grieved Pelops.
- Pelops' Wrath and Action: Overcome by sorrow and anger, Pelops expelled his sons, Atreus and Thyestes, from Pisa.
- Hippodamia's Flight: Fearing her husband's intense wrath, Hippodamia fled to Argolis. Her flight was a desperate attempt to escape Pelops' retribution, ultimately leading her to take her own life.
Key Aspects of the Banishment
The narrative highlights the severity of Pelops' reaction to Chrysippus's death, leading to the forced exile and tragic end for his family members involved:
- Sons Expelled: Atreus and Thyestes were formally expelled from their home by their father.
- Mother's Flight and Demise: Hippodamia's desperate flight, driven by fear of Pelops, signifies a forced exile and indirectly a banishment that led to her death.
This act of banishment set a somber precedent, weaving a complex tapestry of betrayal and retribution into the mythical history of Pelops' descendants.
