Cerberus, << SUR buhr uhs, >> was a monstrous three-headed dog who guarded the entrance to Hades, the underworld of Greek and Roman mythology. Cerberus was the offspring of the monsters Typhon and Echidna. His mane or tail consisted of snakes.
Cerberus allowed only shades (spirits) of the dead to enter Hades and savagely barred their escape. However, three living mortals successfully overcame him. Orpheus used the magical power of his music to charm Cerberus into submission. Hercules used his great strength. Aeneas entered the underworld with the help of an old woman called the sibyl, who lulled Cerberus to sleep with drugged food.
