The Story of Tyche
Tyche was the goddess of fortune, luck and chance. Hesiod lists her among the Oceanids, the daughters of Oceanus and Tethys, though others called her a daughter of Zeus. She could bring wealth and success, or take them away just as suddenly.
Tyche was often shown holding a ship's rudder, steering the course of people's lives, or standing on a ball or wheel that could roll in any direction. She also carried a cornucopia, the horn of plenty, as a sign of the riches she could give. Many Greek cities worshipped their own Tyche as their guardian, and she wore a crown shaped like city walls.
Tyche became especially important after the time of Alexander the Great, when sudden changes of fortune seemed to rule the world. One of the most famous statues of her stood at Antioch, showing her seated on a rock with a river god swimming at her feet. The Romans called her Fortuna, and she lives on in the familiar idea of Lady Luck.
Tyche's Family Tree
Partners of Tyche
Children of Tyche
Frequently Asked Questions About Tyche
Who is Tyche in Greek mythology?
Tyche is the goddess of fortune, luck and chance, who also watched over the prosperity of cities.
Who are Tyche's parents?
Hesiod names Tyche as one of the Oceanids, the daughters of Oceanus and Tethys, though others called her a daughter of Zeus.
Why does Tyche wear a crown of city walls?
Many Greek cities worshiped their own Tyche as their guardian, so she was shown wearing a crown shaped like city walls.
What is Tyche's Roman name?
The Romans called Tyche Fortuna.
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