Hera

Definition

Hera is the queen of the gods in Greek mythology and the wife of Zeus. She is the goddess of marriage, women, and family, often portrayed as a protector of women and a vengeful figure against Zeus's many lovers. Her complex character appears throughout various myths, showcasing her influence and often turbulent relationships with other gods and heroes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hera is often depicted with symbols such as the peacock, which represents her beauty and pride.
2. She played a significant role in the myth of Heracles, where she often acted out of jealousy and spite towards him due to his being Zeus's illegitimate son.
3. In 'Argonautica,' Hera aids Jason and the Argonauts by influencing events to ensure their success on their quest for the Golden Fleece.
4. Hera’s jealousy leads to several conflicts with other deities and mortals, showcasing her role as a protector of marriage yet a fierce adversary to those who threaten her honor.
5. The temple of Hera at Olympia was one of the oldest in Greece, highlighting her importance in ancient worship and culture.

Review Questions

• How does Hera's character manifest in her interactions with Heracles throughout his myths?
  • Hera's character is prominently displayed in her antagonistic relationship with Heracles, whom she resents as the illegitimate son of Zeus. She attempts to thwart his endeavors by sending serpents to kill him as an infant and later complicates his quests, showcasing her jealousy and desire for revenge. Despite being a protector of marriage, her personal vendetta against Heracles reveals a more complex side to her character.
• Analyze Hera's influence on the quest of Jason and the Argonauts in 'Argonautica' and how her actions shape their journey.
  • In 'Argonautica,' Hera plays a crucial role in guiding Jason by influencing key events to help him secure the Golden Fleece. She offers support through divine intervention, including persuading Aphrodite to make Medea fall in love with Jason. This intervention emphasizes Hera's protective nature towards heroes she favors while also illustrating her strategic maneuvering in both mortal and divine realms.
• Evaluate the complexities of Hera's relationship with Zeus in relation to themes of power, jealousy, and family within Greek mythology.
  • Hera's relationship with Zeus is marked by themes of power dynamics, jealousy, and familial discord that reflect broader societal views on marriage and gender roles. As Zeus's wife, she holds a position of power yet constantly battles his infidelities with both divine and mortal lovers. This conflict not only fuels her jealousy but also demonstrates her determination to assert control over her own narrative within the patriarchal framework of Olympus, illustrating a complex interplay between love, betrayal, and authority.

Related terms

Zeus:

The king of the Greek gods, ruler of Mount Olympus, and god of the sky and thunder, who is married to Hera.

Heracles:

A divine hero and son of Zeus, known for his incredible strength and numerous mythological adventures, including the Twelve Labors.

Olympus:

The mythical mountain that serves as the home of the Greek gods, including Hera and Zeus, where they held court and influenced human affairs.