INTRO: Ares, the Greek god of war, is a multifaceted figure in Greek mythology, representing not just the violence of battle but also the complexities of human conflict. Although often misunderstood and criticized, his character provides valuable insights into the ancient Greeks’ perceptions of war, honor, and masculinity. Here are ten intriguing facts about Ares that illuminate his role and significance in mythology.
Ares Was One of the Twelve Olympian Gods in Greek Mythology
Ares is recognized as one of the Twelve Olympian gods, the principal deities of ancient Greece residing atop Mount Olympus. He is the son of Zeus and Hera, and despite his divine lineage, he is often portrayed as a rather unpopular figure among the other Olympians. His presence in mythology underscores the duality of war—both revered and reviled—highlighting how even the gods were not immune to the complexities of human emotions and conflicts associated with warfare.
He Represented the Brutality and Chaos of War
Unlike his counterpart Athena, who embodied strategic warfare and wisdom, Ares personified the chaotic and brutal aspects of battle. He thrived on the tumult of conflict, often reveling in the violence and bloodshed that war brings. This portrayal reflects the ancient Greeks’ ambivalence toward war; while it was sometimes necessary and honored as a means of achieving glory, it was also recognized as a source of suffering and destruction. Ares’ association with chaos serves as a reminder of the darker side of human nature.
Ares Had a Notorious Affair with Aphrodite, Goddess of Love
One of the most famous tales involving Ares is his passionate and scandalous affair with Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Their relationship, characterized by passion and intrigue, defied the typical boundaries of the gods and showcased a unique blend of love and war. The affair ultimately led to various narratives of betrayal, jealousy, and even comedic situations, especially when Aphrodite’s husband, Hephaestus, discovered their infidelity and devised a plan to expose them. This relationship illustrates the interplay between love and war, highlighting the complexities of both emotions.
His Roman Equivalent, Mars, Had a More Favorable Image
In Roman mythology, Ares is paralleled by Mars, who was regarded with greater esteem and reverence than his Greek counterpart. Mars was not only the god of war but also held associations with agriculture and fertility, reflecting the Romans’ more multifaceted perspective on warfare and its role in society. This positive perception of Mars can be attributed to Roman values that emphasized martial prowess and the protective aspects of war, contrasting sharply with the Greek view of Ares as a chaotic and unpopular deity.
Ares Was Often Accompanied by His Sons, Phobos and Deimos
Ares was frequently depicted alongside his two sons, Phobos (Fear) and Deimos (Terror), who personified the panic and dread that accompany warfare. These figures represented the psychological aspects of conflict, illustrating how fear can dominate individuals during battle. Together, they highlight the emotional landscape of war, emphasizing that it is not only physical violence but also a realm filled with psychological turmoil and anxiety, a theme that resonates throughout various mythological narratives.
The Spartans Worshipped Ares as Their Patron Deity
Among the various city-states of ancient Greece, the Spartans held Ares in particularly high regard, viewing him as their patron deity. Renowned for their military prowess and discipline, the Spartans embraced Ares’ attributes, idolizing his fierceness in battle. They built temples in his honor and offered sacrifices to seek his favor in warfare. This reverence underscores Ares’ embodiment of martial strength and bravery, which aligned perfectly with Spartan ideals of honor, loyalty, and courage on the battlefield.
Ares’ Symbols Include the Spear, Helmet, and Dog
Ares is often associated with specific symbols that encapsulate his identity as the god of war. The spear, helmet, and the dog are commonly depicted in art and literature associated with him. The spear represents aggression and combat, while the helmet signifies the warrior aspect of his character. The dog, on the other hand, symbolizes loyalty and the untamed nature of war. These symbols not only reflect Ares’ martial characteristics but also serve as cultural markers of the values and beliefs surrounding warfare in ancient Greek society.
He Lacked the Strategic Warfare Skills of Athena
While Ares embodies the ferocity and raw power of warfare, he starkly contrasts with Athena, who symbolizes wisdom, strategy, and tactical acumen in battle. This lack of strategic skill often led Ares into reckless ventures, portraying him as a more barbaric and impulsive deity. The ancient Greeks recognized that warfare was not merely about brute strength; strategy and intellect played crucial roles in achieving victory. Ares’ shortcomings in this area reaffirm the belief that true martial success requires more than just aggression.
Ares Was Not Widely Popular Among Other Olympian Gods
Ares’ character was often met with disdain or disinterest from his fellow Olympians. Unlike other gods who enjoyed adoration and respect, Ares frequently faced mockery and was shunned in various myths. His brutish nature and propensity for chaos made him a less desirable companion among the gods, who often preferred to associate with deities embodying more noble traits. This unpopularity reflects the ancient Greeks’ ambivalence toward war and their tendency to view its more violent aspects as undesirable.
OUTRO: Ares remains a complex and enigmatic figure in Greek mythology, illustrating the multifaceted nature of war and human emotion. Through his relationships, symbols, and contrasting traits with other deities, Ares serves as a reminder of both the glory and the horror of conflict. Understanding Ares not only enriches our knowledge of Greek mythology but also encourages contemplation of the enduring themes of violence and human struggle that continue to resonate through history.