If you have ever been curious about the origins and evolution of Greek mythology you are likely to be familiar with certain gods like Artemis, Ares Dionysos (Hephaestus), Zeus, Hades, and Ares. Here's a quick guide to these characters.
Artemis
Artemis, the Greek goddess of artemis, is one twelve major Olympian gods. She is the goddess associated with hunting, wild animals and the moon. She is also associated with fertility, childbirth, and virginity. The goddess is the daughter of Zeus and Leto, a Titaness. She was also a major Virgin Goddess.
Ares
Ares, one of the gods associated with war in Greek mythology, is also known as Ares. He was considered to be an ancestor for the Romans as was Mars. He wore a tall, plumed helmet, which was often associated with weapons and shields. Many artworks have used his imagery, from contemporary to classical.
Dionysos
Dionysos (the god of wine) is an important figure within Greek mythology. Dionysus rode an elephant and was pulled by a pair a panthers in ancient Greek mythology. He was also associated 5 sacred plants: grapevine ivy bindweed, pine, and tree. His devotees carried wreaths of ivy and pine cones.
Hephaestus
Hephaestus, one of the Greek gods most closely associated with the arts & crafts, is one of his most popular associations. His workshop was under a volcano and he was known as the god of fire and crafts. Hephaestus wasn't physically perfect like the Olympian gods but he was famous for his skills with tools, weapons and forging.
Hermes
Hermes, one of the Greek mythological gods, was a trickster and patron of thieves and merchants. He moved freely between the worlds of Olympus and mortals, and was also associated with the underworld. He was also the patron saint of travelers and roads.
Athena
Athena is the daughter of Zeus, and the goddess of arts. She also protects the king. Athena, originally a serpent-like goddess, lived along the Aegean coastline. Athena was also the goddess for Athens. Zeus loved her because she is the embodiment wisdom and reason.
Persephone
Persephone, the god of Greek mythology, is the goddess for love, spring and death. Zeus and Demeter were her parents. Her name was often associated to scepters and torches, poppies and the rooster. She also had an allegorical connection that is rich because she helped to give death a better face. She helped heroes and lovers in grief throughout her life. She even granted Orpheus his beloved Eurydice and helped Psyche in her quest to earn back her beloved Eros.
Hercules
Hercules, the Greek mythology-based character, is a hero from many stories. He saved the princess of Troy and his family from a sea monster during his time on Earth. Zeus also defeated the Giants in the battle for Olympus control. His second labor was the killing of the Lernaean Hydra. Hera had raised it to kill Hercules. Hercules covered Hercules mouth and nose to keep the poisonous fumes out of his face. He then fired flaming bullets into Hydra's lair in the spring of Amymone. This was a deep cave.