The Story of Atropos
Atropos was one of the three Fates, or Moirai, and the most inflexible of them. Her name means she who cannot be turned, because no one could change her decision. Her sisters were Clotho, who spun the thread of life, and Lachesis, who measured it.
With her shears, Atropos cut the thread of life, choosing the moment of death. In one story, Apollo saved his friend King Admetus by getting the Fates drunk on wine and persuading them to spare his life if someone would die in his place. His wife Alcestis offered herself, and even Atropos agreed to the bargain.
Atropos was often shown holding a pair of shears or a set of scales. In Plato's story of Er, she sings of the future and makes each soul's chosen fate unchangeable. The poisonous plant deadly nightshade, Atropa belladonna, is named after her.
Famous Myths About Atropos
The Life of Meleager
The Fates told Meleager's mother that her son would live only until a log in the fire burned to ash. When she finally threw the log back into the fire years later, Meleager died as it burned.
Apollo's Trick
Apollo saved his friend Admetus by getting the Fates drunk and persuading them to spare his life if a substitute could be found. Even Atropos, who cuts every thread, agreed to the bargain.
Atropos's Family Tree
Partners of Atropos
Children of Atropos
Frequently Asked Questions About Atropos
Who is Atropos in Greek mythology?
Atropos is one of the three Fates, or Moirai. She cuts the thread of life with her shears, deciding the moment of death.
What does the name Atropos mean?
Atropos means the one who cannot be turned, because no one can change her decision.
Is the belladonna plant named after Atropos?
Yes. The poisonous plant deadly nightshade has the scientific name Atropa belladonna, after Atropos.
What is Atropos's Roman name?
The Romans called Atropos Morta, one of their three Fates, the Parcae.
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