My Favorite Greek God: Ares, The God of War

Undoubtedly, among the plethora of Greek deities, Ares, the god of war, stands out as my favorite. Unlike other mythological figures, Ares is not depicted as a perfect hero or deity. Instead, he embodies a complex mix of virtues and vices that make for a compelling character. While one may argue the authenticity of these myths, viewing them as theories until proven wrong, it's fascinating to explore Ares through the lens of various depictions and interpretations. This god is more than a mere story; he is a reflection of human nature, with all its contradictions.

Ares: The Warrior and His Attributes

Ares, the son of Zeus and Hera, is a character that embodies a range of traits that are typically associated with the human experience. He is often seen as the representing courage, masculinity, brutality, and bloodlust. His attributes are further compounded by elements of success, destruction, chaos, aggression, savagery, lust, battle, and fiery passion. These attributes paint a picture of a multifaceted character, one who is as capable of heroic feats as he is of destruction.

Ares is perhaps best known for his early experiences, where, despite being the son of the king of the gods, he faced numerous defeats. This led to his eventual personification of victory. Interestingly, one of his daughters is Nike, the goddess of victory, symbolizing his journey from failure to triumph. This transformation from a warrior who faced many setbacks to one who ultimately represented victory is a testament to resilience and perseverance.

Ares: A Powerful and Fear-Inducing Figure

Depictions of Ares portray him as an immense and extremely strong being, often evoking fear in those who cross his path. His power and ferocity are such that he managed to gain a reputation as a worthy foe of even the mighty Zeus. This portrays a god who, despite being seen as a demon or a violent figure, is still recognized for his strength and prowess. His description as a warrior who inspires fear in others highlights his role not just as a defender but also as a force to be reckoned with.

Ares: The Polyamorous Godfather

A unique aspect of Ares is his openness to multiple relationships, a trait that sets him apart in the context of Greek mythology, which is heavily centered on monogamous relationships. He is a god who fathered numerous divine and mortal offspring, further enriching the narrative of Greek mythology. For instance, he fathered the Amazons with Harmonia, the goddess of harmony, and a war-god son with his sister Eris, the goddess of discord. These relationships with various gods and mortals showcase Ares' polyamorous nature and his status as a god of war who is not bound by traditional marital norms.

A Polymorphous Warrior: A God for a Man of Victory

What more could a man want from a god than to embody these attributes? Ares is a figure that, despite his failures, represents a man of victory. In a world often clouded by confusion and uncertainty, Ares is a symbol of strength and resilience. His life story is one of transformation, from a warrior who faced many failures to one who ultimately embodies victory. His ability to be open to multiple relationships and his role as a fierce and merciless warrior make him a compelling figure.

Conclusion: The Complexity of Ares

In conclusion, Ares, the god of war, is a complex figure that defies easy categorization. He is a god who embodies multiple facets of human nature, making him a fascinating subject of study. His journey from failure to victory, his polyamorous nature, and his representation of war and its myriad attributes make him a compelling figure in Greek mythology. Whether one looks at these stories as mere tales or seeks to find deeper meaning, there is no denying the allure and complexity of Ares.

References and Further Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into the myths and legends of Ares, here are a few recommended resources:

Myths and Gods of Ancient Greece by PatriciaNaNash Demigods and Half-bloods: The Complete Series by Rick Riordan

Please note that these references include hyperlinks to online sources for readers to explore more.