Arguably the most influential aspect of Greek culture, Greek Mythology has paved the way for many to live their lives by. But here are some things you probably didn’t know about this iconic chapter in history.
There are things that we know since the dawn of our time, like that Zeus had many wives and that Hercules was his son, Aphrodite was the goddess of love and Hades the god of the underworld. But with such a rich and long history, there are things that get missed in mainstream media.
Hades isn’t the bad guy
For one, Hades isn’t the bad guy – well not really. Hades has a bad reputation with the world and is seen as the Greek version of the ‘devil’, but Hades never chose the underworld life, it was just the luck of the draw – literally! He and his brothers Zeus and Poseidon drew straws to see which realm they would rule and as chance would have it, Zeus drew the heavens, Poseidon the sea and Hades the underworld.
Medusa wasn’t the only ugly woman
Medusa wasn’t the only ugly woman. A story as old as time, Medusa is famously known to be the despised woman with a head of snakes as hair who can turn anyone to stone with one glance into her eyes. Medusa eventually meets her end by the hands of Perseus however, Medusa came from a family of snake-haired sisters, known as Gorgons, all whom were immortal except Medusa, thus Medusa being the unlucky sister to be captured and killed.
The Christian Church initially tried to rule out Ancient Greece’s gods and myths but given the legacy and their very status through history and society it became an impossible action to overrule.
Athens was named after Athena
Athens was named after Athena, the goddess of war and wisdom, because she won a bet with Poseidon. This new Greek city was the center of debate between Poseidon and Athena and who was the more deserving of it. It was then decided that whoever presented the best gift to the city would be crowned the winner. Poseidon provided the city with a harbor so that ships could sail to and from but the water was undrinkable. Whereas, Athena gifted the city with Olive trees which the town could use in a plethora of ways – food, wood and oil. Thus, Athena won and was awarded with a city named ‘Athens’.
The brothers 3 iconic weapons were because Zeus released the Cyclops. In order to beat this beast, skilled blacksmiths created Zeus’ thunderbolts, Poseidon’s trident and Hades’ cap of invisibility all of which identify with their positions of power. Who says your siblings never give you anything?
There is such a deep history surrounding Ancient Greece and unravelling the truths behind it definitely provides some interesting entertainment!
Maybe one of the best ways to explore Greek culture and mythology is by visiting its islands and ancient towns. Island hopping tour, sailing in Greece or cycling through the country there are numerous ways, you just need to pack your bags and go. Medexperience.com is a place where you can get all the info you need to start you Greece journey.
