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Hera
Ἥρα(Hera)
Also known as: Juno
By Elizabeth Stein for Mythos Atlas. About the author. Editorial notes are grounded in the site's cited sources and can be challenged through the contact page.
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About Hera
Queen of the Gods
Hera is the majestic queen of Olympus and the goddess of marriage and childbirth. As the wife of Zeus, she holds immense power, but she is most famously known for her jealousy and vengeance against Zeus's lovers and illegitimate children.
The Divine Marriage
Her marriage to Zeus is turbulent, reflecting the storms of the sky. Despite his infidelities, Hera remains the protector of lawful marriage and the sanctity of the family. She is often depicted holding a pomegranate (symbol of fertility) and accompanied by a peacock.
Origin Story
Hera was the eldest daughter of Cronus and Rhea, swallowed by Cronus at birth and later freed by Zeus. She became Zeus's wife after he courted her in the form of a cuckoo bird.
Ancient Sources
Original texts with translations - toggle to see the original language
“Hera of the silver sandals the goddess left not night nor day, from the time when she first began to rule over immortals and mortals.”
Homeric Hymn to Hera, 1-3
trans. Hugh G. Evelyn-WhiteRead sourceAncient Texts
- Read Iliad
Iliad by Homer
c. 750 BCE·Ancient Greek
Hera's role in the Trojan War and conflicts with Zeus
Recommended translations: Richmond Lattimore (1951), Robert Fagles (1990)
- Read Bibliotheca (Library)
Bibliotheca (Library) by Pseudo-Apollodorus
c. 1st-2nd century CE·Ancient Greek
Comprehensive account of Hera's persecution of Heracles
Recommended translations: James G. Frazer (1921), Robin Hard (1997)
Domains
marriagewomenfamilychildbirth
Symbols
peacockcowpomegranatediadem
Related Deities
Family Tree
Explore Hera's relationships with other deities