The mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human is known as the sphinx. Often portrayed in ancient Egyptian and Greek mythology, the sphinx is famous for challenging travelers with riddles. The Egyptian sphinx, typically associated with protection, is depicted with the body of a lion, symbolizing strength, and a pharaoh's head, representing leadership. In Greek mythology, the sphinx poses her riddle to Oedipus, ultimately leading to her downfall. This creature represents the intersection of human intellect and animal ferocity in mythology.