Hera is the queen of the gods, and the goddess of marriage and childbirth. She is often represented by peacocks and wedding rings.
Hera and Zeus had three children together: Ares, Eris, and Hephaestus. However, Zeus was not faithful to Hera and this angered her greatly. She once tried to plot against him by enlisting the help of other gods to drug his drink and bind him in his sleep while they stole his thunderbolt from him. Rescued by one of the giants, he wrapped Hera in golden chains until she promised not to plot against him again.
Hera’s wish for Zeus to honor his vows only to her made her an important figure who presided over Greek weddings. Her jealousy was well-known among the gods, and she often tried to make Zeus’ children miserable with her plots and tantrums. Zeus even feared her tantrums and rages, and would sneak down to earth in disguise to escape.
While Hera is not always remembered in modern day literature, she is an important figure as the mother of Zeus’ children, and the queen of the gods. Hera is well-known in Homer’s epic poem The Iliad to have a hatred for Troy, and is thought to have pressured Zeus into persuading King Agamemnon to attack. She has a special place in her heart for the Greeks, and tries to help them win against the Trojans at every opportunity.
Hera Quick Reference
Parents
Cronos and Rhea
Power / Domain
- Marriage
- Childbirth
- Queen of the Gods
Symbols
- peacock
- wedding rings
- diadem
Notable Myths
- Marriage to Zeus
- Revenge on Zeus' mistresses
- Jason and the Golden Fleece
How Tos about Hera: Greek Goddess
Engage Students with a Hera-Themed Storytelling Activity
Capture students' attention by inviting them to create short stories featuring Hera and other Olympian gods. This promotes imagination and helps students connect with the material in a personal way.
Prep Materials for an Interactive Mythology Lesson
Gather pictures, printouts, and brief texts about Hera and her role in Greek mythology. Visual aids make learning more memorable and encourage participation from all learners.
Facilitate Group Research on Hera’s Symbols
Divide students into small groups and assign each one a symbol associated with Hera (such as the peacock or diadem). Groups can research the meaning and present findings to the class, fostering teamwork and critical thinking.
Encourage Creative Expression through Art
Invite students to draw or paint their own interpretation of Hera using the symbols they’ve learned. This helps reinforce content and allows for individual creativity.
Connect Mythology to Modern Life
Discuss how values and themes from Hera’s stories appear in today’s world. This builds relevance and supports deeper understanding for students.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hera: Greek Goddess
Who is Hera in Greek mythology?
Hera is the queen of the gods in Greek mythology. She is known as the wife of Zeus and the goddess of marriage, women, and family.
What are Hera's main symbols and powers?
Hera's symbols include the peacock, diadem, and scepter. Her powers center on protecting marriage and women, and she often intervenes in myths involving families or childbirth.
Why is Hera important among the 12 Olympian gods?
Hera is important because she serves as the queen of Olympus, acting as a leader and protector of families. Her influence shapes many stories about loyalty and justice in Greek mythology.
How can teachers use facts about Hera in classroom lessons?
Teachers can use Hera facts to encourage discussion about ancient beliefs, gender roles, and mythological storytelling. Lesson plans on the 12 Olympian Gods offer engaging classroom activities.
What are some famous myths involving Hera?
Famous myths featuring Hera include her role in the Judgment of Paris, the trials of Heracles, and her conflicts with Zeus's other wives and children.
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