The Greek myths that tell the tales of the gods, goddesses and heroes date back to the early Bronze age. At that time they were told aloud by poets. They were first written down in the early 6th century BC and from then on continued their life in Western literature. Myths were closely bound up with Greek religion and gave meaning to the unpredictable workings of the natural world.
They tell the story of the creation and the “golden age”, of gods and mortals as well as the age of semi-mythical heroes such as Theseus and Heracles, whose exploits were an inspiration to ordinary men.
The gods and goddesses were affected by human desires and failings and were part of the divine family presided over by Zeus. He had lots of children, both legitimate and illegitimate each with a mythical role.
Zeus was known as the father of the gods and ruled over them and all mortals from Mount Olympus.
Hera, Zeus; wife was famous for her jealousy.
Athena, was born from Zeus’ head. She came out in full armour.
Poseidon, one of Zeus; brothers, was the ruler of the seas. The trident is his symbol of power. He married the sea goddess Amphitritewho had a lot of problems with his infidelity.
Paris appears in the mythology as someone who was asked to award the golden apple to the most beautiful goddess.
Dionysos, god of festivities, grapes and wine, was born from Zeus’ thigh.
Arthemis, the chaste goddess of the hunt, was the daughter of Zeus and sister of Apollo. She can be identified by her bow and arrows, bounds and group of nymphs with whom she lived in the forests. Artemis was also considered to be a goddess of childbirth.
Helios, the sun god, drove his four- horse chariot, depicted in the form of the sun, daily across the sky.
Aphrodite, the goddess of love, was born from the sea’s foam. Mythology says this happened on the island of Cyprus. Her son was Eros (Cupid).
Apollo, son of Zeus and brother of Artemis, was god of healing, music and beauty. He is depicted holding a lyre. He himself was also famous for his astounding beauty.
Hades and Persephone were known as the king and queen of the Underworld. Persephone was abducted by Hades from her mother Demeter, goddess of the harvest. She was only allowed to return to her mother for three months each year.
