Myth of Sagittarius Constellation

Abstract

The celestial sphere is divided into 88 areas known as constellations. Besides when we mention constellation, we consider star clusters. Ancient astronomers compared the shapes of the constellations to the mythological heroes and animals. Greek and Roman astronomers were also inspired by myth while naming the constellations.  

One of these constellations is Sagittarius (Cheiron) and it is among the 12 constellations of the Zodiac. He was the wisest of the whole centaurs (half- horse men). He lived on mount Pelion. As he was instructed by Apollo and Artemis he was skilled in hunting, medicine, music, war and prophecy. His friendship with Peleus, the king of Phthia was well known. Cheiron saved him from the hands of other centaurs and informed him how he might gain possesion of Thetis who was destined to marry a mortal. Cheiron also had many friends among the Argonauts. Hercules was his friend too. On the other after he was accidently wounded by one of Hercules’ poisoned arrows, he suffered an unbearable pain and gave his immortality to Prometheus. Then Zeus placed Cheiron among the stars.

Our aim in this study is to examine the myth of Cheiron known as the Sagittarius Constellation as was represented by many Ancient Greek and Roman poets and authors.