The Ancients Heracles
Jun 23, 2024
Professor Alastair Blanshard discusses the legendary hero Heracles, his 12 labours, and his enduring presence in various media forms. The podcast explores Heracles' trials, triumphs, and mythical adventures, including battling the Nemean lion and capturing Cerberus. Learn about the tragic events surrounding Heracles' death and transformation into a god.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Heracles' Unmatched Popularity
- Heracles is the most famous Greek hero with stories across the Mediterranean.
- Ancient writers noted there are more Heracles stories than anyone can record.
Miraculous Conception And Twin Birth
- Zeus disguised himself as Amphitryon to seduce Alcmene and prolonged the night for three days.
- Heracles is born from that union as Zeus' son and shares birth timing with a mortal twin.
Hera Attempts To Block His Birth
- Hera stalled Heracles' birth by making the goddess of childbirth clasp her hands.
- A maid revealed the goddess and forced her to release Heracles into the world.