Heracles, also called Hercules by the Romans, is the most famous hero in Greek mythology. He was the son of Zeus and a mortal woman, Alcmene, which gave him great strength but also a troubled life. From childhood, Hera, the wife of Zeus, hated him and tried to destroy him. Even as a baby, he showed his power by killing two snakes that attacked him in his cradle.
The greatest part of his story is the Twelve Labors, a punishment he had to complete for crimes caused by Hera’s influence. These tasks were nearly impossible, such as killing the Nemean Lion, capturing the wild Erymanthian Boar, and cleaning the Augean stables in one day. Through these challenges, Heracles proved not only his physical power but also his bravery and cleverness.
However, Heracles was also a tragic figure. His temper often caused pain to himself and others, and his life ended in suffering when he was tricked into wearing a poisoned robe. In the end, the gods rewarded him by making him immortal and allowing him to live on Mount Olympus.
Heracles remains a symbol of strength, endurance, and the human struggle with fate.