Greek mythology tells stories of gods, heroes, and rituals of ancient Greeks. Plato recognized myths contained fiction elements, but Greeks viewed them as true. Greek myths influenced Western civilization's arts and literature
Nike is either daughter of Pallas and Styx or Ares. She had three brothers: Zelos, Kratos, and Bia. She was close companions of Zeus
Centaurs were half-human, half-horse creatures created by Zeus' anger. They were born from Ixion, who had intercourse with mares on Mount Pelion. Early depictions showed six legs, later four with human torso
Aphrodite is the goddess of beauty, love, sex and pleasure. She is depicted as extremely beautiful and wears revealing clothing. She is assisted by winged Erotes, winged gods of love. She is a major Olympian with her own throne on Mount Olympus
Dionysus is god of wine, vegetation and ecstasy, promoting joy and civilization. Demeter controls agriculture and food supply, defying Zeus with Persephone. Apollo controls music, healing and plague, establishing Delphi Oracle. Artemis controls hunting, moonlight and childbirth, stopping wars. Hermes is god of wealth, trade and travelers, influencing other gods
Odysseus's journey home after Troy illustrates the quest for immortality. Jason's quest for the Golden Fleece represents adventure and danger. Theseus killed the Minotaur and became king of Athens. Perseus defeated Medusa and rescued Andromeda. Orpheus and Eurydice's tragic story illustrates love and loss