Minos, son of
Zeus and princess
Europa, was ruler of
Crete. With the aid of greek sea-god
Poseidon he gained control over the
Cycladic islands. Once he gained control Minos is thought to have been a relatively just leader (especially among decadent
Gods), bringing the islands societal structure and punishing rogues.
In order to solidify his power Minos promised
Poseidon that would sacrifice whatever that god sent him from the sea. Poseidon sent a powerful bull, but Minos thought it too beautiful to destroy, and killed another bull in its place.
At this Poseidon was furious, giving rise to the bull's rampage all over Crete and
Hercules subsequent adventure.
The story continues.
In order to punish Minos, Poseidon (an incredibly powerful god) made
Pasiphae, Minos’ wife, fall in love with the bull. The child she bore came to be known as the Minotaur – half bull, half human,
pure terror .
See nodes
Theseus and
Minotaur for more information.