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In Greek mythology, Jason was the leader of a band of adventurers who set out on a long journey to find the Golden Fleecehide of a magic ram that hung in a sacred grove guarded by a serpent. Although he succeeded in this quest, he never achieved his true goal—to become king of the land of Iolcus. Jason's story is one of violence and tragedy as well as adventure, partly because of his relationship with the enchantress and witch Medea.

Background to the Quest. Like many Greek heroes, Jason was of royal blood. His father was King Aeson of Iolcus in northwestern Greece. The king's half brother Pelias wanted the throne himself and overthrew Aeson while Jason was still a boy Jason's mother feared for his safety. She sent him away to be guarded by Chiron, a wise centaurhalf-human, half-animal creature with...