Cetus signified a large sea monster from the Greek mythology. The Cetus that is mentioned in the story of Perseus is possibly the most well-known version.
Myths & Legends[]
The sea monsters that the heroes Perseus and Heracles killed during their adventures were also described with the word Cetus.
One of the most famous myths including a Cetus was when Cassiopeia, queen of Aethiopia, boasted that her daughter Andromeda surpassed the Halia nymphs in beauty. Poseidon was infuriated by the insolence of the mortal woman, and sent a sea monster named Cetus to destroy the shores of the region. Cassiopeia and her husband Cepheus asked the advice of an oracle that told them they should sacrifice their daughter to the monster, in order to appease the god. The royal couple agreed and had their daughter chained to a rock next to the sea. Just before Cetus attacked her, Perseus appeared and learned of what was about to happen. He freed Andromeda and either slew the monster with his sword, or used Medusa's head to turn it to stone.
Appearance[]
Cetus is usually depicted as a large serpent-like monster with a reptilian head/maw. They frequently also have two upper limbs which are sometimes fins and other times claws. Occasionally a pair of back limbs are also included.