Hera hated Hercules because he was a constant reminder of her husband Zeus's infidelity.
Hera's Resentment: A Deeper Look
Hera's animosity toward Hercules, also known as Heracles in Greek mythology, stems from a fundamental aspect of her relationship with Zeus: his rampant infidelity. Hercules was the product of one of Zeus's many affairs, and this made Hera harbor deep resentment.
Key Factors Contributing to Hera's Hatred:
- Illegitimate Birth: Hercules's birth as a result of Zeus's affair was a direct affront to Hera's position as queen of the gods and Zeus's wife.
- Constant Reminder: His very existence was a living symbol of Zeus's betrayal, a continuous source of pain and humiliation for Hera.
- Personal Cruelty: As a consequence of this anger, Hera actively sought to make Hercules's life miserable, often using her divine power to inflict hardship and suffering on him. The reference says, "Hera hates Heracles because he is a living reminder of her husband's infidelity. Because of this she is cruel to him."
The Tragedy of Heracles
As the play in the reference indicates, Hera's hatred directly led to immense suffering for Heracles.
The play illustrates how the gods intervene in human affairs, and how Hera's hatred ultimately leads Heracles to unknowingly kill his own family – a terrible tragedy directly influenced by her deep-seated resentment.
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Zeus's Affair | Hercules was born from Zeus's infidelity, upsetting Hera |
| Living Symbol | His existence was a constant reminder of Zeus's unfaithfulness |
| Direct Action | Hera actively tried to cause Heracles suffering and pain |
Conclusion
In summary, Hera's hatred for Hercules was fueled by his status as a symbol of Zeus's infidelity. This resentment led her to actively torment Hercules and even contributed to the tragedy that befell him.
