Hercules and Cacus

In which city did Cacus live?

Pallanteum

What was significant about Pallanteum if you were Roman?

It was situated on the place where Rome would be built (Pallantine Hill)

Who was the King of Pallanteum?

King Evander

Who did Evander tell the story of Hercules and Cacus to?

Aeneas

Unpleasant details about Cacus

He was half-human, he nailed his victim’s heads to the door (disrespectful behaviour), he belched fire, the ground outside his cave was always warm with fresh blood

Who was Cacus’ father?

Vulcan, god of smithing

How did Cacus try to deflect suspicion when he stole the cows?

He dragged them backwards into his cave so their footprints appeared to lead out of it

What labour had Hercules just finished when he arrived in Pallanteum?

Capturing the Cattle of Geryon

How did Hercules kill Cacus?

Pulled the rock away from the top of his cave and strangled/choked him to death

How can Hercules be seen as a villain?

He used excessive force to kill Cacus, killing is gory and brutal, Cacus was clearly very afraid of Hercules, Cacus only stole a few cattle (not enough to give his life for)

How did Cacus try to hide from Hercules after being discovered stealing the cattle?

He fled into his cave, closed it with a huge rock and belched smoke so Hercules couldn’t see him

What did the worship of Hercules involve?

Animal sacrifice and the burning of incense

How did Hercules realise that some of his cattle had been stolen?

Just as he was about to leave, one heifer (female cow) mooed loudly from the cave

Where was the temple of Hercules situated in Rome?

Between the river Tiber and the Aventine Hill (where Cacus’ cave was)

How was Cacus characterised?

Villainous, blood outside the door, heads nailed to the door, described as wicked and a cunning person who loves blood

How is Hercules characterised?

He is the greatest avenger, a saviour, presented as animalistic, very heroic, has a very mad rage/anger

What does this myth tell us about Hercules’ life?

He is dangerous, he is ferocious and unmerciful against monsters, he is shown as heroic (believed to be a complete hero at the time), he has had an effect on a large number of people