Ares
Ares is the Greek god of war, especially its violence, rage, and confusion. A son of Zeus and Hera, he often clashes with Athena, who represents more controlled warfare. His stories show that great strength and a love of fighting do not guarantee victory.
Key stories of Ares
Wounded by Diomedes
Ares fights on the Trojan side, but the Greek warrior Diomedes wounds him with Athena’s help. The war god retreats to Olympus and complains to Zeus.
In The Iliad, Athena guides Diomedes’ spear into Ares. His immense cry and hurried retreat show that even a god of war can suffer defeat.
In The Iliad by Homer
Caught with Aphrodite
Ares and Aphrodite are lovers, although Aphrodite is married to Hephaestus. Hephaestus traps them together in a net and calls the other gods to witness their shame.
In The Odyssey, the singer Demodocus tells this story while Odysseus is among the Phaeacians. The powerful war god is left helpless by the smith god’s clever trap.
In The Odyssey by Homer
Imprisoned by Giants
The giants Otus and Ephialtes imprison Ares in a bronze jar. Hermes secretly frees him after learning where he is held.
In The Iliad, Dione recalls Ares’ imprisonment while comforting the wounded Aphrodite. His suffering is one example of gods enduring pain at mortal hands.
In The Iliad by Homer
How to recognise Ares in stories
- Look for a warrior god linked with battle fury, weapons, and bloodshed.
- Notice clashes with Athena, whose judgment often defeats his force.
- Watch for ties to Aphrodite and rivalry with Hephaestus.
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Is Ares the same god as Mars?
Ares and Mars were identified with each other, but they had different roles in Greek and Roman tradition. Ares often represents destructive battle fury. Mars also held an honoured place as a protector of Rome and the father of its legendary founders, Romulus and Remus.
Why does Ares lose fights if he is the god of war?
Being the god of war does not make Ares unbeatable. His defeats often contrast raw aggression with skill, planning, or divine help. In The Iliad, Athena helps Diomedes wound him, showing that fierce strength alone cannot control a battle.
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