Deianira (also
Deianeira) was figure in
Greek mythology, a Greek princess and wife of
Heracles. Her husband-to-be had to slay the cruel river god
Achelous to win her hand in marriage. Later, a
centaur named
Nessus attempted to kidnap Deianira but she was rescued by Heracles, who shot the centaur with a poisoned arrow. As he lay dying, Nessus lied to Deianira, telling her that his blood would ensure that Heracles would love her forever. Deianira believed his words and, when she became uncertain if Heracles would remain true to her, smeared some of the blood on Heracles' famous hide shirt. Heracles' servant,
Lichas, brought him the shirt and he put it on. The blood killed Heracles.