Haemon was the name of one or more of the sons of Creon of Thebes, and also of the son of Andraemon. The name seems to derive from haema, 'blood', and indeed the first Haemon came to a 'bloody' end when he was throttled by the
Sphinx for being unable to answer her riddle. (For the man who finally outwitted her, see
Oedipus.) But perhaps we must consider another origin as a possibility, this being haimon, 'skilful'. Such a generally commendatory name would be suitable for almost anyone.
