Story Summary
Discover the tragic tale of Hera's Revenge on Heracles, where divine jealousy leads to madness and the start of the legendary Twelve Labors of the hero.
Heracles, the son of Zeus and the mortal Alcmene, was the living embodiment of his father’s infidelity, a fact that the goddess Hera could never forgive. While Heracles lived a life of fame and married the beautiful Princess Megara, Hera watched with simmering rage. She waited until the hero was at the height of his happiness before striking her most cruel blow. Descending from Olympus, Hera clouded Heracles’ mind with a sudden, violent madness. In a blind fever, the hero mistook his own wife and children for monsters and slew them. When the mist cleared, Heracles woke to find his family dead by his own hand. Stricken with unbearable grief, he sought the counsel of the Oracle of Delphi. To atone for the blood on his hands, the Oracle commanded him to serve his cousin, King Eurystheus, for twelve years. This sentence led to the legendary Twelve Labors, a series of impossible tasks designed by Hera and the King to destroy him, yet they ultimately paved his way to immortality.
The Moral
Even the greatest strength cannot protect one from the whims of fate, yet redemption is always possible through perseverance and humble service.
“Even the strongest mortal cannot break the chains of a goddess's spite.”
Fun Fact
Ironically, the name 'Heracles' translates to 'Glory of Hera,' a name meant to appease the goddess that ultimately served as a reminder of her eternal pursuit of him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Hera's Revenge on Heracles?
The story teaches that while one cannot always control the tragedies brought by external forces, redemption can be found through hard work and determination. It emphasizes that even the most broken person can rebuild their legacy through penance.
Why did Hera hate Heracles so much?
Hera's hatred stemmed from her husband Zeus’s many infidelities. Heracles was the son of Zeus and a mortal woman named Alcmene, making him a constant reminder of Zeus's betrayal of his marriage vows.
What happened to Heracles' family during Hera's revenge?
Hera inflicted a temporary madness upon Heracles, causing him to lose his sense of reality. Under this spell, he tragically killed his wife, Megara, and their children, believing they were enemies.
How did Heracles seek redemption for his actions?
Overcome with guilt, Heracles traveled to the Oracle of Delphi to find a way to cleanse his soul. The Oracle told him he must serve King Eurystheus and complete whatever tasks were set before him.
Who assigned the Twelve Labors to Heracles?
The tasks were officially assigned by King Eurystheus, the ruler of Tiryns. However, Hera secretly influenced the king to ensure the labors were as deadly and impossible as possible.
Did Hera ever stop tormenting Heracles?
Hera continued to harass Heracles throughout his mortal life, even during his labors. It was only after his death and ascension to Olympus as a god that they were finally reconciled, and he married her daughter, Hebe.