Ares

Definition

Ares is the Greek god of war, embodying the brutal and chaotic aspects of conflict. Often depicted as a fierce warrior, Ares represents not just physical combat but also the underlying human emotions that drive war, such as anger and aggression. His presence in mythology highlights the role of the gods in influencing human affairs, particularly in the context of warfare and strife.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ares was not widely worshipped in ancient Greece compared to other gods like Zeus or Athena, partly because he represented the chaos of war rather than its glory.
2. In art and literature, Ares is often depicted with armor, a spear, and sometimes accompanied by symbols like dogs or vultures, emphasizing his connection to battle.
3. The Romans identified Ares with their own god of war, Mars, who had a more positive connotation and was associated with agriculture and civilization.
4. Ares had several romantic relationships in mythology, most notably with Aphrodite, the goddess of love, symbolizing the complex relationship between love and war.
5. In the Iliad, Ares plays a role in the Trojan War, showcasing how the gods directly influenced the course of human conflicts and outcomes.

Review Questions

• How does Ares' character differ from that of Athena in terms of their representations of warfare in mythology?
  • Ares embodies the raw and chaotic nature of war, focusing on violence and destruction without regard for strategy or reason. In contrast, Athena represents strategic warfare and wisdom, emphasizing planning and discipline in battle. Their differences illustrate two sides of conflict: one driven by emotion and chaos (Ares) and the other by intelligence and strategy (Athena).
• What role do Olympian gods like Ares play in shaping human affairs during wartime according to Greek mythology?
  • In Greek mythology, Olympian gods such as Ares are deeply intertwined with human affairs during wartime. They are seen as influencing the emotions and decisions of warriors on the battlefield. Ares’ presence instigates aggression and conflict among mortals, while other gods may intervene to support different sides or promote peace. This reflects a belief that divine forces can dictate the outcomes of human struggles.
• Evaluate how Ares' representation in Greek mythology reflects societal views on war and conflict during ancient times.
  • Ares' portrayal as a figure of chaos highlights the ancient Greek ambivalence toward war; while it was necessary for defense and honor, it also brought destruction and suffering. This duality suggests that while Greeks admired bravery in battle, they were wary of war's uncontrollable nature. By embodying these contradictions, Ares represents both the allure and horror of conflict, mirroring societal attitudes that saw war as both a source of glory and tragedy.

Related terms

Athena:

The Greek goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, often seen as Ares' counterpart, representing the more disciplined and calculated aspects of battle.

Warrior Culture: A social system that glorifies and prioritizes military prowess and valor, often seen in ancient Greek society, where Ares was a significant figure.

Olympians: The principal deities of ancient Greek mythology who resided on Mount Olympus, including Ares, each playing a specific role in human affairs and the natural world.