In Greek myth, the Cyclops (plural Cylopes) was a giant with one eye. Cyclops is believed to mean "round eye" or "ring eye."
History
The earliest known writings featuring Cyclopes are by the ancient Greek writers, Homer and Hesiod. Scholars remain uncertain about when these writers lived; some contend that they both lived in the ninth century B.C.E.
Features
Hesiod's giants are blacksmiths and masons, while Homer's are shepherds. The Cyclopes of both writers are ill-tempered and dangerous.
Theories/Speculation
Some scholars believe that Hesiod's Cyclopes are too different from Homer's to be related. Others make the case that the isolated shepherds in Homer are the offspring of the primordial Cyclopes of Hesiod.
Fame
Homer's Polyphemus is the best known Cyclops due to his inclusion in "The Odyssey." Trapped in the giant's cave, Odysseus uses his legendary cunning to defeat the man-eater and escape.
Legacy
Many characters based on the Cyclopes can be found in popular culture. While most are villainous (X-Men villain Basilisk, Kang and Kodos from "The Simpsons"), some are benevolent (Mike Wazowski from "Monsters, Inc.", Leela from "Futurama").
