Greek Mythology

Mythology - a religion based on myths, which are designed to explain naturally occurring events.

Greek religion was built around stories involving numerous gods. Greek religion was polytheistic.

The stories of the gods were used to explain natural phenomena, human behavior and life events. For example, why do the seasons change? Why does the sun rise and set? What happens after we die?

Greek gods and goddesses displayed many human qualities, like jealousy, anger and love. They also competed with each other for power and the respect of humans.

The Greek gods lived on Mt. Olympus.

Origins of the gods The god of the heavens (Uranus) and the earth (Gaia) had several children, known as the Titans.

One of the Titans, Chronus, was so afraid that his children would overthrow him that he swallowed them whole when they were born. He eventually swallowed his first five children… Poseidon, Hades, Hera, Demeter and Hestia.

When Chronus’ wife, Rhea, had her sixth child (Zeus) she wanted to put an end to this. She gave Chronus a stone wrapped up like a baby, which caused him to vomit up his children.

Zeus and his brothers and sisters overthrew Chronos. Zeus became the king of the gods but agreed to share the world with his brothers: Poseidon- oceans and the sea Hades - underworld/afterlife (dead) Zeus - sky/heavens

Zeus and his siblings…

Zeus King of gods, sky and weather Father/protector of gods and mortals Symbols- lightening bolt (also his weapon) He controlled thunderstorms (a symbol of his mood or way to help in time of battles) Father of many gods and goddesses: Athena is favorite

Hera Queen of the gods/heaven Zeus’ wife (and sister) Symbols - peacock, cow Often depicted as jealous of other goddesses and mortals who draw Zeus’ attention/affections

Poseidon god of the sea Symbol - weapon was the trident, capable of shaking the earth and causing water to flow. Second most powerful god after Zeus Brothers with Zeus and Hades

Hades god of the underworld and death. Brother to Zeus and Poseidon Married Persephone, after abducting her. He was tricked into becoming lord of the underworld, ruling over the dead. Spends most of his time there. Seen as a greedy god (wants more subjects/dead).

Hestia goddess of the hearth and home. She was the symbol of the house, around which a new born child was carried before it was received into the family. Many cities had hearths dedicated to her.

Demeter goddess of the harvest. Her daughter, Persephone, was kidnapped by Hades to be his wife. The seasons are caused by Demeter’s emotions. During the summer, Persephone is on earth. During the winter, Persephone is with Hades.

Zeus’ children

Artemis Goddess of the hunt, animals and childbirth Considered a moon goddess along with Selene and Hectate Twin sister of Apollo Symbols - bow, arrow Sacred animals: dogs, deer, and geese

Apollo God of prophecy, light, truth, cattle and agriculture Twin brother of Artemis Patron of medicine and healing Master archer and athlete - first winner at Olympic games

Ares God of war (particularly brutal warfare) Son of Zeus Known to be aggressive and arrogant Unpopular with gods and mortals because of this Not invincible (he could even be beaten by mortals) He could get hurt (and Zeus would have to heal him)

Athena Goddess of wisdom, war, the arts, industry, justice and skill. Youngest daughter of Zeus and Metis (Zeus’ first wife) Only fights to protect the state and home from outside enemies. She was the goddess of Athens, handicrafts, and agriculture. Symbols: owl City: Athens (gives them the olive tree) Credited with many inventions like the bridle, trumpet, flute, pot, rake, plow, yoke, ship, and chariot.

Hermes messenger god. Hermes' main role was as a messenger, esp. for Zeus Took souls to underworld Also made the Lyre (hand-held harp)

Hephaestus god of fire and metalwork. He was born lame and weak and has a gentile spirit. Married to Aphrodite… His workshop was under Mt. Etna in Sicily (under the volcano)

Aphrodite Goddess of love and beauty Born from the sea. Wife of Hephaestus Loved by many gods and mortals Symbols- Myrtle tree, Birds: dove, swan, and sparrow