(fab. hist.), a son of OEdipus and Jocasta. After his father's death, it was agreed between him and his brother Polynices, that they should both share the royalty, and reign alternately each a year. Eteocles by right of seniority first ascended the throne; but after the first year of his reign was expired he refused to give up the crown to his brother, according to their mutual agreement. Polynices, resolved to punish such an open violation of a solemn engagement, went to implore the affluence of Adrastus king of Argos. He received that king's daughter in marriage, and was soon after assisted with a strong army headed by seven famous generals. These hostile preparations were seen by Eteocles, who on his part did not remain inactive. He chose seven brave chiefs to oppose the seven leaders of the Argives, and stationed them at the seven gates of the city. He placed himself against his brother Polynices, and he opposed Menalippus to Tydeus, Polyphontes to Capaneus, Megareus to Eteoclus, Hyperbius to Parthenopaeus, and Laethnes to Amphiarous.

Much blood was shed in light and unavailing skirmishes, and it was at last agreed between the two brothers that the war should be decided by single combat. They both fell in an engagement conducted with the most inveterate fury on either side; and it is even said that the ashes of these two brothers, who had been so inimical one to the other, separated themselves on the burning pile, as if sensible of resentment, and hostile to reconciliation.