The Legend of Ares

 The Legend of Ares

The Legend of Ares: The Embodiment of War and Conflict in Greek Mythology

Ares, one of the most controversial deities in ancient Greek mythology, embodies the tumultuous and destructive aspects of war. Revered and feared in equal measure, Ares represents the physical aggression necessary for survival, yet his brutal and chaotic nature often stands in stark contrast to the strategic and controlled manner of warfare favored by the Greeks, particularly as embodied by Athena, goddess of wisdom and strategic war.

Origins and Family

As the son of Zeus and Hera, Ares was born into the powerful lineage of Olympian gods. Despite his noble origins, he was less favored by his parents compared to other gods due to his volatile and aggressive temperament. Ares is often accompanied by characters that personify different aspects of warfare; among these are Deimos (Terror) and Phobos (Fear), who are also his sons, and Enyo, the goddess of destruction and bloodshed, often considered his sister or consort.

Characteristics and Depictions

In classical art, Ares is depicted as a vigorous and handsome warrior, dressed in battle armor and typically carrying a spear or sword. Unlike other gods who were celebrated for multiple aspects of life, Ares's identity is almost exclusively linked to the brutality and violence of war. He revels in the chaotic joy of battle, indifferent to the justice or moral alignment of the conflicts in which he participates.

Myths and Stories Involving Ares

Ares features prominently in various myths, which often highlight his fierce nature and tumultuous relationships with other gods. One notable story is his involvement with Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Their affair produced several children, including Phobos, Deimos, and Harmonia. The juxtaposition of the deities of war and love highlights a thematic complexity within Greek mythology, illustrating the interconnectedness of opposing forces.

In the "Iliad," Ares's role is significant, yet he is portrayed as less capable than Athena in the context of strategic military planning. During the Trojan War, he frequently switches sides, showing allegiance sometimes to the Trojans and sometimes to the Greeks, based purely on his desires and the influences of other gods.

Another famous myth involves the imprisonment of Ares by the Aloadae giants, Otus and Ephialtes. He was held captive in a bronze jar for thirteen months, a humbling episode that underscores his vulnerability despite his formidable strength.

Worship and Cult

Unlike other Greek gods, Ares's worship was not widespread across Greece. His primary center of worship was in the region of Thrace, north of Greece, which was considered by the Greeks as a somewhat barbaric area that mirrored Ares’s savage disposition. However, he was also revered in Sparta, where militarism was a way of life and the martial virtues he embodied were highly esteemed.

Legacy and Modern Interpretations

In modern contexts, Ares is often seen as a symbol of the senseless violence and destructiveness of war. His narrative allows for reflection on the nature of conflict and its impact on humanity. Throughout literature and media, Ares is portrayed in a variety of ways, often highlighting the darker aspects of human nature and the paradox of his existence as both a necessary and destructive force.

Conclusion

Ares, as the personification of the primitive and brutal aspects of warfare, holds a complex place in Greek mythology. His legend provides insight into the ancient Greeks' attitudes towards war and violence—a necessary evil, capable of both destruction and the enforcement of peace. His enduring legacy in art, literature, and popular culture continues to invoke the dual nature of war, reflecting both its destructive consequences and its deeply ingrained place in human history and psyche.