In consequence of an oracle which had commanded him to marry his daughters to a lion and a boar, he wedded them to Polyneices and Tydeus, two fugitives, clad in the skins of these animals or carrying shields with their figures on them, who claimed his hospitality.
Adrastus, followed by Polyneices and Tydeus, his two sons-inlaw, Amphiaraus, his brother-in-law, Capaneus, Hippomedon and Parthenopaeus, marched against the city of Thebes, and on his way is said to have founded the Nemean games.
Tydeus took part in the expedition of the "Seven against Thebes," in which, although small of stature, he greatly distinguished himself.
Tydeus married Deipyle, the daughter of Adrastus, by whom he had a son, the famous Diomedes, frequently called Tydides.
Athena, who held Tydeus in special favour, hastened to the field of battle, to heal him of his wound and bestow immortality upon him.