The Greek God Zeus

Generations of information on mythological figures and accounts have contributed to the different cultures of the world, helping to shape the world into what it is today. All of the gods and goddesses recognized throughout the history of mythology played an active role in the evolution of present myths people believe today. Although there have been many gods invented by humans this article will provide a brief description of one of the well-known gods Zeus, along with the roles Zeus played in the development of present day myths.

Zeus, god of the sky and ruler of the Olympian gods, was the supreme god of Greek mythology. Zeus was the son of Cronus and Rhea, and was credited for overthrowing his father and making him vomit up all of his older brothers and sisters. He was married to Hera the earth god, but engaged in loving many different women. Zeus maintained a civilization of peace and political order by hurling his weapon, the thunderbolt, at those who disrupted his way of life.

Hera, the permanent companion of Zeus and goddess of marriage, was a beautiful, yet cruel, jealous, and vengeful god. She often filled her time with getting revenge on women that Zeus was unfaithful with. Some mythological readings suggest that Hera only married Zeus to avoid the shame of being raped by him after he pretended to be an injured bird with the sole purpose of getting close to her. She later sought vengeance with the help of other gods, drugging and binding Zeus. Failure to plan ahead allowed time for Zeus to break free and left Hera and the other gods pleading for their lives. After being hung from the sky with gold chains for one full night, Zeus finally gave into her plea for a second chance. After Hera was released she never rebelled against Zeus again but always found ways to scheme against his plans.

By: Blair Levi

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