Greek mythology is an incredibly fascinating subject to teach, especially when it comes to the Gods and Goddesses that the Greeks worshiped. One of the most interesting ones to explore is Ares – the Greek God of War. Ares was adored and feared by the Ancient Greeks, and as a teacher, it’s important to share his tales with students.
Introducing Ares as a God of War
To begin teaching about Ares, it’s essential to introduce him as the Greek God of War. Ares was considered one of the twelve Olympian Gods, the most important gods in Greek mythology. The Greeks believed that Ares was the son of Zeus and Hera and was born in Thrace, a region in northern Greece.
The stories surrounding Ares were numerous, bloody, and intriguing. While some Greeks may have worshiped Ares as a warrior God, others saw him as an enemy of civilization and a God of chaos. This dichotomy makes Ares a fascinating God to study.
The Role of Ares in Greek Mythology
Ares was among the most violent and feared of all the Greek Gods. He was known to be a bloodthirsty warrior who would relish in the destruction of his enemies. Ares’ imposing and intimidating presence made him a popular God among Greek soldiers. In times of war, Greeks would pray to Ares for victory and protection.
The Goddess Athena was another important Greek God who was often depicted as a counterpart to Ares. While Ares was violent and destructive, Athena was regarded as a divine warrior representing strategy and logical war. This duality emphasizes the importance of understanding both Gods and their differences.
Depictions of Ares in Art
In art, Ares was often portrayed as a muscular, handsome man. His clothes would be adorned with armor, a helmet, and a spear – the quintessential image of a Greek warrior. Artistic depictions of Ares often showed him snarling, displaying a muscled chest, and wielding his formidable weapons.
Teaching students to appreciate the art that depicts Ares is an important part of studying and understanding Greek mythology. Art is a fascinating way to evoke discussion about history, culture, and religion.
