The Labors of Hercules, known in Greek mythology as the Dodekathlon, are a series of twelve tasks performed by Hercules (known as Heracles in Greek) as penance for killing his wife and children in a fit of madness induced by the goddess Hera. Here's an overview:
Hercules was the son of Zeus and the mortal Alcmene. Hera, Zeus's wife, was deeply jealous of Hercules due to his father's infidelity. She sent two serpents to kill him as a baby, but Hercules strangled them. Later, Hera's curse led to Hercules's temporary madness, prompting him to kill his family. To atone for his actions, he was instructed by the Oracle of Delphi to serve King Eurystheus of Tiryns for twelve years and perform the labors set by him.
These labors were not only tests of strength but also of cunning, intelligence, and bravery. They served to illustrate Hercules's transformation from a cursed man to a hero. His completion of these tasks made him a symbol of overcoming adversity through determination and virtue.
The stories of Hercules's labors have been widely depicted in art, literature, and film, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, the power of redemption, and the human capacity for heroism. They continue to influence modern narratives and are a staple in discussions of ancient Greek mythology.
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