Pentheus

Pentheus (Greek: Πενθεύς) was a figure in Greek mythology, known primarily for his role in the tragedy The Bacchae by Euripides. He was the king of Thebes, son of Echion and Agave, and grandson of Cadmus, the founder of Thebes. Pentheus is often depicted as a rigid and arrogant ruler who refused to acknowledge the divinity of Dionysus, the god of wine and ecstasy, leading to his tragic downfall. The name "Pentheus" is derived from the Greek word "πένθος" (pénthos), meaning "mourning" or "sorrow," which is fitting given the tragic nature of his story. In Hebrew, his name can be translated as פנתאוס (Penta'os). In Latin, he is known as Pentheus, and in French, he is referred to as Penthée. Pentheus's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of hubris and the importance of recognizing the divine.