* The Personification of the Ocean: Oceanus was the first god of the sea, even before Poseidon. He was depicted as a large, powerful river god who encompassed all the fresh waters of the world.
* Father of the Oceanids: He was married to Tethys, and together they had thousands of children, including the Oceanids, who were the nymphs of the springs, rivers, and streams.
* Important in Cosmology: Oceanus played a crucial role in Greek cosmology. He was considered to be the source of all water, and his waters flowed around the Earth, forming a great river that encircled the world.
* His Role in the Titanomachy: Oceanus played a neutral role in the Titanomachy (the war between the Titans and the Olympians). He did not side with either side, although he was the father of several Titans.
Despite his importance in early Greek mythology, Oceanus gradually lost prominence as Poseidon rose to become the god of the sea. However, he remained a significant figure in ancient Greek literature and art.