Hades is the ancient Greek god of the underworld, ruler of the dead, and brother to Zeus and Poseidon.

Background

Hades, eldest son of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, was swallowed at birth but later freed by Zeus. He joined his brothers to defeat the Titans, then drew lots for cosmic domains, receiving the underworld while Zeus took the sky and Poseidon the sea. Earth remained shared among the three.

Symbols and Depiction

Typically shown with a bident, somber expression, and beard, Hades wields the Helm of Darkness for invisibility. His companion, Cerberus, guards the underworld gates. Known as "the Unseen One" or Plouton ("Giver of Wealth"), he links to earth's riches.

Family and Myths

Hades abducted Persephone, daughter of Demeter, as his queen after Zeus's approval, tricking her into partial yearly stays via pomegranate seeds. He rarely left the underworld, once wounded by Heracles defending Pylos. In some tales, he fathers the Furies.