In classical mythology, six male and six female Greek gods and goddesses ruled over the world from their home on Mt. Olympus. These twelve deities represented various aspects of life such as death, love, fertility, knowledge, and agriculture.
Zeus was the king of the gods and the ultimate ruler of Mt. Olympus. He was the son of Rhea and Cronus. Zeus, along with his brothers Poseidon and Hades overthrew his father in an extensive ten year campaign commonly referred to as the clash of the titans. He went on to become the pivotal figure in ancient Greek mythology and fathered a huge number of the characters that are prominent in the stories of this age.
Poseidon was the god of the seas and the bringer of earthquakes. He was given this position after playing an integral role in the clash of the titans. He was worshiped widely and thought of as the protector of many Greek towns and cities. It was said that Poseidon had an ability to calm the oceans to allow for a smooth crossing and bountiful fishing.
The most multifaceted deity in the Greek pantheon was Apollo. Known as the god of light, sun, prophecy, truth, medicine, healing, poetry, art, and music, he was believed to be extremely powerful. Apollo is usually depicted clean shaven and with youthful features. Symbols associated with Apollo include the laurel, lyre, and the bow.
Ares was the deity associated with war. He was thought of as barbaric, chaotic, and unpredictable, and was believed to have an immense lust for blood. His half sister was the goddess Athena; she acted as his assistant in planning strategic warfare. The dog and vulture were typically associated with Ares.
Another important deity was Dionysus. He was born to Zeus and Semele in the ancient city of Thebes. Dionysus was associated with merriment, ecstasy, wine, and celebrations. It is suggested that Dionysus possessed a profound beauty which was in part to blame for him being hidden away to be protected against the vengeful goddess Hera, another of Zeus' wives.
The brother of Poseidon and Zeus, Hades, played an integral role in the destruction of their father and the beginning of Olympian rule. Declaring victory over Cronus the three brothers divided up the world and realms. Hades took control over the underworld, albeit with benevolence and balance.
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If you like reading about ancient Mayan culture find out about Mayan gods and the reasons why so many people worshipped them.
Learn about ancient Greek culture and the famous Greek goddess Athena and other goddesses such as Aphrodite.
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