Heracles

By A.M.

Heracles, god of strength, protected the ancient Greeks for many years to atone for the murder of his wife and kids. The circumstances surrounding Heracles’ birth set the course for a life marked by vengeance and atonement.  Heracles was the son of the almighty god Zeus and the mortal woman Alcmena. Although, Amphitryon was believed to be Heracles’ father, Hera, wife of Zeus, found out that it was actually Zeus and Alcmena who had the child. Hera was overwhelmed with both anger and jealousy when she heard the news. Due to her spite, Hera was on a mission to try and kill Heracles, but Heracles was too strong, for he possessed superhuman strength given to him by his father Zeus. But Hera, was so set on destroying Heracles that she one day cast a spell that had driven him mad enough to kill his wife and children. After this incident, Heracles used his power to slay various monsters as an act of atonement. Although he lacked intelligence, his strength was so mighty, that the job of protecting Greece was made possible. His feats were told in several myths. One of those myths includes, The Labors of Heracles.  Throughout this myth, Heracles demonstrates his loyalty to the Greeks by protecting them and keeping Greece safe from the horrible monsters that lived on the outskirts of the country. Legends and myths such as The Labors of Heracles have inspired leaders all throughout the world. One of the most inspiring qualities of Heracles was that although he was a warrior, he showed sympathy towards, and tried to help others, in distress.

Bibliography

I.M., Richardson. The Adventures of Hercules. United States of America: Troll Associations, 1983.