Hercules (also known as Herakles) is the most popular hero in Greek mythology. He was born the son of the Greek king of the gods, Zeus, and the mortal Alcmena. This very fact made him mortal too. However, during his life’s ventures, Hercules proved himself to be a brave man thus earning himself a position among the Greek gods.

Hercules story begins with the relationship of his parents. Both Zeus and Alcemena were married to someone else when they conceived Hercules. Zeus’ wife (who was also his sister) was very angry by the affair. Hera tried to kill Hercules almost immediately after his birth. Her attempt failed.

As time passed, Hercules grew into a strong warrior. He met a woman, Megara, and the started a family. The couple was happy, but Hera continued to be jealous. She tricked Hercules into a rage. Unwittingly, he killed his wife and children. Sick with grief, Hercules prayed to the sun god, Apollo, for redemption. Apollo assigned the warrior Hercules 10 tasks (this number later turned into 12). If Hercules completed the tasks, Apollo said his soul would be cleansed.

Hercules was then sent to serve King Eurystheus for 12 years and complete the tasks. Hera continued meddling in Hercules life, but he successfully made it through his term and gained access to the immortal world.

During his life, Hercules managed to find time to remarry. This time to a woman named Deianira. Ironically, Deianira’s love for Hercules ended in is assimilation to the kingdom of Greek gods. Unknowingly, Deianira presented her husband with a cloak that she thought was covered in a love potion. She thought that by giving the cloak to her husband, he would love her forever. Unfortunately, the cloak was really doused in poison and it burned Hercules skin to the point that he attempted suicide. Hercules requested a fire be made and he entered the fire to burn himself alive. Zeus saw this take place and he requested Hera’s forgiveness and she granted. He then requested that Hercules become an immortal and his son was delivered to Olympus to live out the rest of his life.