Phaëton

Family: Mortal · Role: son of Clymene · First appears: Fable 17

In Fable 17, Epaphus challenges Phaëton’s claim that Apollo is his father, calling him “puffed up with the conceit of an imaginary father.” Ashamed, Phaëton tells his mother Clymene, who confirms his parentage and directs him to seek proof from Apollo.

In Fable 18, Apollo confirms Phaëton’s true origin and, after delaying as long as he can, grants him command of the solar chariot for one day despite the danger. Phaëton takes the reins, but the horses leave their track; when terror makes him let go, the uncontrolled chariot sets cities, nations, mountains, and rivers ablaze.

In Fable 19, Jupiter strikes Phaëton with lightning, ending his life and restraining the flames. Phaëton falls into the Eridanus, and in Fable 20 the Hesperian Naiads commit his smoking body to a tomb and inscribe that he “miscarried in a great attempt.” His sisters, including Phaëthusa and Lampetie, mourn him.