Ariadne (Greek mythology)

Ariadne is a figure from Greek mythology, most famous for her association with the ancient hero Theseus. She is the daughter of King Minos of Crete. When Theseus arrived to confront the Minotaur—a monster that lived in a labyrinth—Ariadne fell in love with him. She provided him with a thread to navigate the maze, allowing him to find and defeat the Minotaur and escape. Afterward, she and Theseus fled together, but he eventually abandoned her on the island of Naxos. Ariadne is often viewed as a symbol of love, loyalty, and cleverness in overcoming challenges.