Castor and Pollux are figures from Greek mythology who were believed to be the twin sons of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Leda, a mortal woman. According to myth, Leda was seduced by Zeus, who appeared to her in the form of a swan, and subsequently laid two eggs. From these eggs, Castor and Pollux hatched, with Castor being mortal and Pollux being immortal.
Castor and Pollux were revered in ancient Greek culture and were known as the Dioscuri, meaning "sons of Zeus." They were renowned for their exceptional bravery, skill in battle, and unwavering loyalty to each other. In art and literature, they are often portrayed as handsome young men on horseback or as celestial twins, symbolized by the constellation Gemini.
As divine patrons, the Dioscuri were particularly associated with sailors and were believed to have the power to calm storms at sea. They were often invoked for protection during voyages, and their presence on a ship was seen as a good omen. Sailors would often make offerings and sacrifices to Castor and Pollux to ensure a safe journey.
In modern usage, the term "Castor and Pollux" can refer to the twin stars in the constellation Gemini. It is also used as a metaphor for a pair of inseparable or harmonious individuals, often used to describe siblings who are exceptionally close or who share a strong bond.
