Midas
Midas is a historical and mythological figure primarily associated with the ancient Phrygian kingdom in what is now modern-day Turkey. He is thought to have been a king around the eleventh century BCE, with historical references indicating that he was granted local power by Assyrian authorities around 730 BCE. Under his reign, Phrygia became a significant trading power, as noted by the historian Herodotus. Midas’s interactions with the Assyrian empire were marked by submission to Sargon II and later resistance to his successors, which suggests a complex relationship with external powers.
In addition to his historical context, Midas is famously known in Greek mythology for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold, a gift granted by the god Dionysus. This myth has led to the phrase "Midas touch," symbolizing the ability to create wealth effortlessly. The story of Midas is enriched by various interpretations, including tragic elements, such as the fate of his daughter, who turns to stone when touched by him. While much of Midas's life remains shrouded in mystery, his enduring legacy bridges both historical and cultural narratives, emphasizing themes of wealth, power, and the consequences of one's desires.
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Midas
Ancient king
- Born: 738 b.c.e.
- Birthplace: Anatolia (now in Turkey)
- Died: 696/695 b.c.e.
- Place of death: Anatolia (now in Turkey)
Related civilizations: Assyria, Phrygia
Major role/position: King
Life
Little is known of the historical Midas. He was apparently king of the Phrygians, a Balkan tribe that settled in Anatolia, part of modern Asia Minor, about the eleventh century b.c.e. According to Assyrian writings, local power was granted to Midas of Phrygia about 730 b.c.e. Midas appears to have opened trade in the region during his reign, as the historian Herodotus refers to Phrygia serving as a trading power during this period. Midas submitted his power to Sargon II of Assyria about 709 b.c.e.; Sargon’s successor, Sennacherib, occupied the region some years later. Midas may have resisted the occupation, as Assyrian documents refer to fighting with Mita of Mushki almost certainly Midas. The invasion of Phrygia by the Cimmerians from the west in 700 b.c.e. probably marked the end of Midas’s rule. Whether he committed suicide, as described in one version of events, or married a daughter of Agamemnon, a king of the Cimmerians, is unclear.
Influence
Midas is best known as a hero of Greek mythology. According to legend, Midas was granted by Dionysus, god of wine, the “gift” of turning all he touched into gold. The “Midas touch” has come to mean the ability of a person to create wealth.
Bibliography
Brown, Dale. Anatolia: Cauldron of Cultures. New York: Time-Life, 1995.
Sasson, Jack, ed. Civilizations of the Ancient Near East. New York: Scribner, 1995.