Analysis Of Herakles And Athena Attic Red Figure

The piece of art that I selected was Herakles and Athena Attic Red Figure made during 490-470 BCE. I chose this because of my love for Greek mythology and Hercules and Athena being one of my favorite mythological personas. I first was shown the origins of Greek mythology when I watched The Odyssey and Hercules. After viewing the movies, I was intrigued by the culture and history make-up of Greece. Greek mythology has always meant a great ordeal to me because of the power and strength that comes from each individual. Herakles was the last mortal son of Zeus, ruler of all the gods, and one of the best known heroes in Greek and Roman mythology. He is best known for his strength and the deciding factor in the triumphant victory of the Olympians

“Goddess of wisdom, war and the crafts, and favorite daughter of Zeus, Athena was, perhaps, the wisest, most courageous, and certainly the most resourceful of the Olympian gods.” (Cartwright) She is goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, strategic warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, the arts, crafts, and skill. Athena was known to many as the protector of the people and was viewed as a powerful goddess. She gave hope to the people of Greece and restored faith in the higher power. She is known to give encouragement to warriors and heroes during times of crisis. Odysseus was a major heroic figure that Athena is credited for giving advice to. Legend says that it was Athena who gave Odysseus the ideas for the Trojan Horse. Douris, the artist for this painting, was known for using themes that were popular during the time period to recreate scenarios to make them more understandable for people to

Herakles is resting after a long day out in battle or defeating monsters. He is shown wearing his famous lion-skin that is described in all stories of what he wears. He is also shown with his famous club that Herakles uses as his choice of weapon. I think the part that confuses me most with this painting is Athena. She is know for being a great goddess, and instead, is shown pouring a liquid of sorts for Herakles. Athena and Herakles have a past history, with Athena being a protector of Herakles and aiding him with his adventures and Twelve Labors that were commanded of him. With Athena’s guidance and support, Herakles was able to accomplish each task. Due to the relationship between Herakles and Athena, it surprises me that she is pouring a liquid for Herakles. Athena could be giving him a drink after a long day out of pure