Argos and Ares: Sons of Zeus in Greek Mythology

Throughout the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, there are countless characters with diverse origins and purposes. Two notable sons of Zeus stand out, each with a unique history and significance. In this article, we explore the characters of Argos and Ares, their familial connections to Zeus, and their roles in the ancient myths.

Argos: The Many-Eyed Giant

Argos is best known for his role as a many-eyed giant who served Hera, the queen of the Olympian gods. His most famous connection is as the watcher over the cow, Io. According to mythology, Io was transformed into a cow by Zeus to avoid the jealousy of Hera. Argos was tasked with keeping Io under constant surveillance. However, his many eyes (depicted to have a thousand eyes) made it impossible for him to miss a single moment of Io's movements.

Argos’ backstory is a bit more complex. He was born to a human father, Arestor, and his mother was either Mycene or Gaia, the primordial goddess of Earth. This phyletic background adds a unique element to his character, blending divine and mortal elements in his existence.

Ares: The God of War

Turning our attention to Ares, another formidable son of Zeus, he is the god of war and conflict. Ares is significant not only because he is a demigod born from two powerful Olympian gods but also due to his distinct personality traits. In contrast to his portrayal in popular modern media, such as the Percy Jackson series, Ares is often depicted as a complex figure, full of contradictions and flaws.

The Disputed Legacy of Ares

Despite his status as a powerful god, Ares had a tumultuous relationship with both his parents. While he is the son of Zeus and Hera, their displeasure with him is well-documented. The Iliad and the broader Homeric corpus often depict Ares as a symbol of the chaotic and frenzied nature of war, emphasizing his effectiveness as a warrior rather than a leader.

Ares in the Riordan Fandom

The only legitimate child of Zeus and Hera, Ares is often studied in the context of Greek mythology and its adherents. In the Riordan fandom, which explores the descendants of Greek gods in contemporary times, Ares is portrayed as one of the second-generation gods. His character is typically described as petty, jealous, and cowardly, traits which make him a challenging and complex figure to profile.

Ares in Modern Depictions

Ares is rarely portrayed as a positive figure due to his disposition. While belonging to a divine lineage, his disposition and actions often land him in unfavorable light. In stories, he is often depicted as a jovial figure with a propensity for tantrums and vindictiveness. His reputation as a “creep” overshadows his glory as a warrior, highlighting the dichotomy between his warlike attributes and his actions and personality.

Key References and Context

It is also worth noting that Ares had a twin sister, Eris, also a child of Zeus and Hera. Both figures are central in Greek mythology, representing different facets of conflict and discord. Eris is often associated with disharmony and strife, further emphasizing the contrasting nature of the two siblings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Argos in Greek mythology?

Argos is a many-eyed giant who serves Hera as a watcher over the cow Io. He played a crucial role in the metamorphosis of Io, a figure manipulated by Zeus to avoid Hera’s wrath.

What is the significance of Ares in Greek mythology?

Ares is the god of war and conflict in Greek mythology. Despite his divine parentage, his character is often portrayed as flawed and jealous. His nature and actions highlight the chaotic and unpredictable aspects of war.

How are Ares and Argos connected to Zeus and Hera?

Both Ares and Argos are sons of Zeus and Hera. Ares, being a demigod, is a significant figure in Greek mythology, often portrayed as powerful but flawed. Argos, on the other hand, is depicted as a giant, maintaining Hera's vigilance over Io.