Heracles+myths+from+Apollodorus+ALL

Overview

• This document is a translation of Apollodorus' Library and Hyginus' Fabulae, two critical handbooks of Greek mythology.

Apollodorus' Library

• A fundamental text in the study of Greek mythology, providing genealogies and narratives of legends.

• Compiled by Apollodorus, it serves as a reference to various myths and their characters.

• Includes tales from the creation of the world, the Trojan War, and the adventures of heroes such as Heracles.

Hyginus' Fabulae

• A collection of myths attributed to Hyginus, who simplified the traditional versions of Greek myths.

• Often used in education to explain mythological contexts and characters effectively.

• Focuses on a range of stories involving Gods, heroes, and the origins of famous tales.

Key Mythological Narratives

Heracles' Birth and Early Life

• Amphitryon and Alcmene: Zeus disguises himself as Amphitryon, sleeps with Alcmene, resulting in the birth of Heracles and Iphicles.

• The Serpents: Hera sends two serpents to kill Heracles, but he defeats them in his crib, showcasing his strength from infancy.

• Education: Trained in various skills, including archery and wrestling, and demonstrates exceptional strength and skill early on.

The Twelve Labors of Heracles

• First Labor: Nemean Lion

  • Tasked with slaying the invulnerable lion of Nemea; Heracles strangles it and uses its skin as armor.

• Second Labor: Lernaean Hydra

  • Faces the regenerative Hydra; with Iolaos' help, he burns the creatures' heads to prevent them from regenerating.

• Third Labor: Ceryneian Hind

  • Captured a sacred deer dedicated to Artemis without harming it, showcasing his respect for the divine.

• Fourth Labor: Erymanthian Boar

  • Captured the monstrous boar alive and brought it back as proof.

• Fifth Labor: Augean Stables

  • Cleans the stables of King Augeas in a day by rerouting rivers; deemed insignificant as it was done for payment.

• Sixth Labor: Stymphalian Birds

  • Uses bronze castanets provided by Athena to frighten and shoot the man-eating birds.

• Seventh Labor: Cretan Bull

  • Captured the bull that once carried Europa, later released it, causing havoc.

• Eighth Labor: Mares of Diomedes

  • Defeated and killed Diomedes; the man-eating horses were tamed and brought back to Eurystheus.

• Ninth Labor: Belt of Hippolyta

  • Fought and killed Hippolyta, the Amazon queen, under the pretense of securing her belt for Eurystheus.

• Tenth Labor: Cattle of Geryon

  • Traveled to Erytheia and defeated Geryon to retrieve his red cattle.

• Eleventh Labor: Golden Apples

  • A complex task, requiring he trick Atlas into retrieving the apples while holding up the sky.

• Twelfth Labor: Cerberus

  • Descended to the Underworld to bring back Cerberus without weapons, showcasing his physical strength.

Heracles' Death and Immortality

• After his labors, he faced tragic events, including a wrongful killing of his wife and children due to Hera’s jealousy.

• Ultimately ascended to Mount Olympus, achieving immortality and marrying Hebe.

The Impact of Heracles' Myths

• Heracles stands as a symbol of strength and resilience in Greek mythology.

• His numerous adventures serve lessons in moral fortitude, courage, and overcoming adversity.

• The myths have influenced literature, art, and popular culture, showcasing the themes of heroism and tragedy.