What is the Riddle of the Sphinx?

A Timeless Ancient Greek Mystery

The ancient Greeks were renowned for their love of puzzles, riddles and mysteries, and the Riddle of the Sphinx is one of the most famous of all time. According to legend, it was posed by a monstrous beast called the Sphinx, which was said to have the body of a lion, the wings of an eagle, and the head of a woman. The Sphinx would ask the riddle to travelers and anyone who failed to answer it correctly would be killed.

The Riddle of the Sphinx

The riddle itself is as follows: “What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs in the afternoon, and three legs in the evening?” The answer to the riddle is “man”, which crawls on all fours in infancy, walks on two feet in adulthood, and walks with the aid of a cane in old age.

The Origins of the Riddle of the Sphinx

The exact origins of the riddle are unclear, but it first appears in Greek literature in the 8th century BCE. According to Greek mythology, the Sphinx was sent by the gods to guard the entrance to the city of Thebes. If a traveler could not answer her riddle, she would devour them. The riddle was eventually answered by a young prince named Oedipus, who was rewarded with the throne of Thebes.

The Meaning of the Riddle

The riddle of the Sphinx has been interpreted in many ways over the centuries. Some believe that it is a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life, while others think it is an allegory for the journey of knowledge. Others have argued that the riddle is actually a test of intelligence, with the Sphinx only allowing those with the wit to answer it to pass.

The Legacy of the Riddle of the Sphinx

The Riddle of the Sphinx has endured for centuries and continues to have a powerful influence on literature and culture. It is referenced in novels, films, television shows, and even video games. Its legacy is a testament to the timelessness of puzzles and riddles and their ability to captivate and challenge us.