Cupid's primary antagonist is considered to be Anteros.
While Cupid is well-known as the god of love, particularly passionate and romantic love, his counterpart Anteros embodies a different facet of affection. Anteros, often viewed as the god of requited love, is sometimes depicted as Cupid's rival.
Anteros: The Rival God of Love
Here's a breakdown of why Anteros is seen as Cupid's enemy:
- Spiritual vs. Carnal Love: Cupid represents carnal love, focusing on desire and passion. Anteros, in contrast, symbolizes spiritual love, mutual affection, and the love that is returned. This distinction makes them opposing forces.
- Contesting for Victory: The reference mentions that Anteros and Cupid are sometimes depicted struggling over a palm, signifying a contest for victory in the realm of love. This image visually represents their rivalry.
In some interpretations, Anteros is not simply an enemy but a necessary balance to Cupid's often impulsive and unbridled passion. Where Cupid's arrow can ignite sudden infatuations, Anteros ensures that love is a reciprocal and enduring bond.
Therefore, while other figures might face Cupid's arrows or challenge his influence in various myths, **Anteros** is the one most consistently portrayed as his rival and even an enemy, due to their contrasting representations of love.
