Harpalyce was the daughter of Clymenus, by a woman named Epicasta; she also had two brothers, Idas and Therager.
In one version of the tale, set in Arcadia, Harpalyce was desired by her incestuous father Clymenus, who ended up raping her.
[6] In another version, set in Argos, Harpalyce was betrothed to Alastor, but nevertheless her father Clymenus delevoped an ardent passion for her.
[7] For some time he managed to restrain himself, but in the end he employed a slave nurse to inform Harpalyce, and the two embarked on a secret affair.
[8] But Clymenus then hurried after them, halted them, seized Harpalyce and returned with her to Argos, where he openly lived with her as his wife.