Sibling Rivalry: Polynices and Eteocles were brothers, sons of Oedipus and Jocasta, the ill-fated rulers of Thebes. From an early age, they were consumed by a fierce rivalry, competing for power and recognition. This sibling rivalry was fueled by the curse of Oedipus, which foretold the downfall of the house of Thebes and the eventual conflict between the brothers.
The Throne of Thebes: After Oedipus was exiled from Thebes due to his tragic circumstances, Polynices and Eteocles agreed to share the throne of the city, ruling for alternating years. However, Eteocles, upon completing his first year of rule, refused to relinquish the throne, violating their pact and igniting Polynices' anger and desire for revenge.
The Seven Against Thebes: Polynices, enraged by his brother's betrayal, sought refuge in the neighboring kingdom of Argos and enlisted the help of six other warriors to reclaim his birthright. This group, known as the Seven Against Thebes, marched against Eteocles and the Theban army in an attempt to overthrow him and restore Polynices to the throne.
Tragic Confrontation: The ensuing battle between the Seven and the Thebans culminated in a tragic showdown between the two brothers. Polynices and Eteocles faced each other in single combat, and in a moment of mutual desperation and wrath, they mortally wounded each other. Their deaths marked the culmination of their bitter rivalry and the fulfillment of the prophecy that foretold their downfall.
Legacy of Conflict: The conflict between Polynices and Eteocles became a lasting symbol of the destructive power of sibling rivalry and the consequences of betrayal and greed. Their story has been immortalized in Greek mythology, literature, and drama, serving as a cautionary tale about the tragic consequences of familial discord and the pursuit of power at any cost.