Irus

The well-known beggar of Ithaca, who was celebrated for his voracity. His real name was Arnaeus, but he was called Irus because he was employed by the suitors of Penelope as the messenger; for Irus, according to the lexicographers, signifies a messenger.

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References

Sources

  • Homer. Odyssey xviii, 5 ff., 239.
  • Smith, William. (1870). Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology. London: Taylor, Walton, and Maberly.

This article incorporates text from Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology (1870) by William Smith, which is in the public domain.