Greek gods and goddesses
AphroditeAphrodite was the goddess of love, desire, and beauty. She represented sex and companionship. Not only was she physically attractive, she had a magical item that made people want her. There are two accounts of her birth. According to one, she was the daughter of Zeus and Dione, the mother goddess worshipped at the Oracls of Dodona. However, the other account, which is more prevalent, informs us that she arose from the sea on a giant scallop, after Cronus castrated Uranus and tossed his severed genitals into the sea. Good fun.
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ApolloApollo was the god of music. He was often depicted holding and playing a golden lyre. Born to Zeus and Leto, twin brother of Artemis. Apollo's most important daily tasks was to harness his four-horse chariot, in order to move the Sun across the sky. Apollo was also considered as the god of healing and medicine, either through himself or through his son Asclepius. At the same time, he could also bring forth disease and plague with his arrows; it was considered that a god that can cause disease is also able to prevent it.
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AthenaAthena was the Greek virgin goddess of reason, intelligent activity, arts and literature. She was the daughter of Zeus; her birth is different in that she did not have a mother. Instead, she appeared full grown and clad in armor from Zeus' forehead. She became the patron goddess of Athens after winning a contest against Poseidon by offering the olive tree to the Athenians.
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HadesHades was the brother of Zeus and Poseidon. After the overthrow of their father, Cronus, he drew lots with them to share the universe. He drew poorly, which resulted in becoming lord of the underworld and ruler of the dead. The Greeks weren't particularly fond of Hades.
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HermesHermes was the Greek god of commerce, son of Zeus and Maia. He was the protector of travelers, thieves and athletes. He often tricked the other gods for his own enjoyment. He could move freely between worlds, he also served as the guide of the souls of the dead to the underworld and the afterlife.
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How did Greek mythology shape their culture?Ancient Greeks believed gods and goddesses controlled nature and basically controlled their lives. They built statues and created other art to honor them. Stories of the gods and goddesses were told in myths. The Greeks did not believe that gods and goddesses were all-powerful. They had special powers, though, but they could be just as flawed as humans. The gods and goddesses married humans, had children, fought wars, and argued with each other. A lot.
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