Welcome back to Greek Mythology Gods. In the previous episode, we explored the story of Jason’s birth and destiny.

Today, let us follow this hero chosen by fate, setting sail for uncharted waters to embark on a legendary adventure to reclaim the Golden Fleece and the Land of Women.

Long ago. Hermes, the messenger god, bestowed upon Phrixus and Helle a flying golden ram, rescuing the siblings—Phrixus and Helle—from persecution by their stepmother. On their journey, Helle fell into the strait and drowned. Phrixus rode the golden ram to Colchis on the eastern shore of the Black Sea. King Aeetes treated him with great respect and gave him his daughter in marriage. To thank the gods, Phrixus sacrificed the ram and gave the Golden Fleece to his father-in-law. Aeetes hung the Golden Fleece in the sacred grove of Ares, guarded by a giant dragon. From then on, the Golden Fleece became a coveted treasure of many nations.

Years later, Jason, seeking to reclaim his throne, was sent by the usurper Pelias to Colchis to retrieve the Golden Fleece. He rallied over fifty heroes, including Orpheus and Heracles. Under Athena's guidance, the skilled craftsman Argo built the warship "Argo." The heroes called themselves "Heroes of the Argo," offered sacrifices to the sea god, and set sail for the Black Sea.

The first stop—Limnos Island. This was a "land of women." The reason was not mysterious: driven by old grudges and fear, the island's women had slaughtered all the men in the city in a single night; they then declared themselves queens, ruled by Queen Hypsipyle, the daughter of the former king. She feared the Thracians might take advantage of the situation, and also worried about the outsiders' intentions.

Jason chose to proceed with diplomacy first. He sent men ashore to greet them, explaining they were merely seeking lodging. The queen convened a general assembly—to defend the city and also to quell the chain of hatred. The final decision was: to treat them with courtesy, the heroes landed to rest, a banquet was held in the city, and goodwill gradually dissipated. Some, however, became engrossed in the pleasures of the land, forgetting their mission.

At this point, a sober-minded person stepped forward. Hercules sternly reminded everyone: the Golden Fleece wouldn't come by itself. Jason then went to see the queen and solemnly bid her farewell.

At the moment of parting... The Queen, expressing her reluctance to part, wished Jason a triumphant return: "May the gods protect you as you successfully obtain the Golden Fleece; if you return, the gates here will always be open for you." Jason took this to heart, leading his crew aboard the Argo once more, sailing out to sea. The women of the Land of Women stood on the sea cliffs, watching the black sail disappear into the distance.

Amidst the echoing waves, the Argo gradually drifted away from the Land of Women, heading towards deeper unknowns. The tender farewell became an echoing incantation, while the storm of fate brewed ahead. Night fell, the sea lost its direction, and the heroes' songs became tinged with sorrow. The trials of the gods, the struggles of humanity, the shadows of love and betrayal—all would emerge in the darkness. Next episode—A Lament in the Night—let us listen to the voices of the Argo heroes and see how they search for a path to light in the darkness.

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods." In the next episode, we will continue our journey into the fantastical world of ancient Greek mythology. The legends of the gods continue, and we look forward to seeing you again!

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Phrixus- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phrixus

Aeetes- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ae%C3%ABtes

Hypsipyle- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypsipyle

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

Hello everyone, welcome back to Greek Mythology Gods. Let's step into the mysterious world of mythology, follow in the footsteps of the gods, and uncover the secrets of destiny and power.

In the last season, we explored the emotional legends of Zeus: he transformed into a bull and carried away the beautiful Europa, giving the world its name; the innocent Callisto was punished for love and transformed into a bear; Io, transformed into a cow, endured jealousy and pain in exile; and the story of Leda and the swan blurred the lines betweenmortals and gods. Each myth is interwoven with the eternal entanglement of love, power, and destiny.

Now, we will begin a brand new epic chapter—the legend of the Argonauts. The story begins with Jason, the chosen hero, who, burdened by the call of his country and destiny, gathers the bravest warriors of Greece and embarks on a journey to find the Golden Fleece. Guided and tested by the gods, Jason's adventures will unveil a magnificent chapter of heroism, faith, and humanity.

Long ago, Creteus, the founder of the kingdom of Iolcus, was king and had two sons: Aeson and Pelias. By blood, the throne should have passed to the eldest son, Aeson. However, Pelias, ambitious and ruthless, seized the throne while Aeson was seriously ill and the court was in turmoil. He massacred his opponents, and Aeson was imprisoned. Aeson's wife, Alcimede, fearing for her newborn's safety, feigned death and secretly sent the child to be raised by Chiron, a centaur. This child was Jason.

Under Chiron's care, Jason grew up strong and quickly became a renowned hero, known for his kindness and virtue. On his way home as an adult, he carried an old woman across a river, losing one shoe in the process. He reached the other side wearing only one shoe. After crossing the river, the old woman, Hera, revealed her true form and offered to help Jason reclaim the throne.

Jason entered the city wearing only one shoe, fulfilling Pelias's oracle about "the one-shoe-wearing man." The two met, and Jason introduced himself: "I am the son of Aeson, returning from my studies with Chiron." He demanded the return of the throne that rightfully belonged to his father. Pelias appeared calm on the surface, but was wary inwardly.

To escape the threat, Pelias proposed an impossible task: "Since you wish to claim the throne legitimately, first accomplish something for the kingdom—travel to Colchis, retrieve the Golden Fleece, and bring back the remains of Phrixus." Young and confident, Jason accepted the mission. In his view, merit would secure his rightful inheritance; while Pelias saw it as a near-certain journey of no return.

Thus, Jason began gathering heroes; future friendships, love, and betrayals would unfold on the voyage.

Today we discuss: Jason's origins, his return home, the confrontation, and the trials set before him.

In the next story, we will embark on the true voyage of Jason's destiny. Under the watchful eyes of the gods, he will gather the heroes of the Argonauts and set sail for the legendary land of women.

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods". In the next episode, we will continue to take you on a journey through time to explore the legends of gods and men. I am your narrator, see you next time!

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Pelias- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelias

Jason- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Hello everyone, welcome back to Greek Mythology Gods! Let's continue our journey into the mysterious world of mythology, following in the footsteps of the gods and exploring the beauty of the intertwined destiny and power.

In the last episode, we told the story of Io, the heifer who was captivated by Zeus, envied by Hera, and forced to become a white bull. She endured escape and suffering, ultimately regaining her human form at Zeus's pleading, symbolizing the power of faith and redemption.

Today, we will encounter another myth—Leda and the Swan, a legend about temptation, destiny, and the eternal beauty of art.

Tyndareus, the Spartan prince banished by his brother Hippocrates, sought refuge with King Thestius in Aetolia. The king appreciated him and gave him his daughter Leda in marriage. Tyndareus returned to Sparta, ascended the throne, and Leda became Queen of Sparta.

Leda's beauty was renowned far and wide. One day, she was bathing on the riverbank. Zeus approached her disguised as a gentle swan. Leda cradled the swan in her arms, but when she awoke from her sleep, the swan was gone.

Soon after, Leda laid two eggs. One hatched into twin brothers: Polydius and Castor; the other into twin sisters: Helen and Clytemnestra.

The sisters were of different lineages—Zeus was the father of Polydius and Helen; Tyndareus was the father of Castor and Clytemnestra.

The sisters' fates rewrote history: the beautiful Helen became the catalyst for the Trojan War; Clytemnestra married Agamemnon, the commander of the Greek coalition.

The brothers also displayed their talents: Polydius was renowned for his boxing; Castor was skilled in horsemanship. The two accompanied the Argonauts on their voyages, embarking on numerous adventures.

This is "Leda and the Swan": a queen, a goddess, and four children; love and deception, fate and lineage intertwined. From an embrace, the story unfolds, revealing one of the most important families and wars in Greek mythology.

In the next episode, we'll embark on a brand new chapter—"The Argonauts." This is a legend of courage, friendship, and destiny. A group of heroes from all over Greece set sail on the Argo to reclaim the Golden Fleece. Among them are the power of Heracles, the music of Orpheus, and a tapestry of love and betrayal intertwined with fate. Are you ready? Let's set sail together, following the Argonauts, on the most magnificent adventure in Greek mythology.

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods"! Next, we will continue our fantastical journey through ancient Greek mythology, encountering the gods again and exploring the intertwining of destiny and legend. Stay tuned!

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Tyndareus- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyndareus

Leda- https://www.theoi.com/Heroine/Leda.html

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Welcome back to "Greek Mythology Gods." Let's once again journey into the mysterious world of myth, follow the footsteps of the gods, and uncover the secrets of fate and power.

Yesterday, we told the story of the innocent Callisto, a woman cursed and exiled by Zeus's lust, ultimately transformed into eternal starlight. Her sorrow shone brightly in the night sky, telling of the injustice of fate and the greatness of a mother's love.

Today, let's explore another woman caught in a fateful trap—Io the Cow. Her story also stems from Zeus's love and Hera's jealousy.

Io, the king's daughter, was pure and kind, and Zeus immediately fell in love with her.

Bewitched by her, Zeus, to evade his wife Hera's suspicions, immediately transformed Io into a white heifer.

Hera arrived, feigning ignorance, and demanded the "lovely cow." Zeus, unable to refuse, gave her the cow.

Hera entrusted the heifer to the care of the hundred-eyed giant Argus. When he slept, only one eye was closed, leaving the others open, leaving Io stranded.

Zeus, determined to save her but unwilling to anger Argus while carrying out his mission, gave his son, Hermes, a death order. Hermes journeyed to the mountains and lulled Argus into a deep sleep with beautiful music. Once Argus closed his eyes, he struck him down with a single blow and escaped with Io.

Furious, Hera sent gadflies to bite Io day and night, causing her to flee. Even free, she would still be a cow, homeless.

Io realized that true freedom lay in Hera's forgiveness.

Zeus, overcome with remorse at her plight, personally pleaded with Hera. Hera finally relented, agreeing to spare the poor girl.

Zeus cast a spell on the banks of the Nile, restoring Io to human form, bringing her suffering to an end. This is Io: caught in a storm of divine desire, driven adrift by jealousy, and ultimately regaining her dignity through perseverance and atonement.

In the next episode, we'll explore another myth of intertwined fate and desire—"Leda and the Swan." On that day, Zeus no longer transformed into a bull, but into a swan, swooping down from the sky. Amidst the storm, love, power, and deception once again entangled, destined to stir up new ripples. Stay tuned—"Greek Mythology Gods," the story of Leda and the Swan.

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods." Next time, we'll continue exploring the mystery and romance of ancient Greek mythology and meet you again in the world of the gods.

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Io- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Io_(mythology)

Hermes- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermes

Argus Panoptes-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argus_Panoptes

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Welcome back to "Greek Mythology Gods"—exploring legends of power, love, and eternity in a world where gods and fate intertwine.

Last episode, we explored the seven wives of Zeus, representing wisdom, justice, grace, harvest, memory, light, and marriage. Each union not only perpetuated the divine lineage but also shaped the order of nature and the human world. From the prophecy of swallowing Metis to the establishment of the system of queens with Hera, Zeus's marital history is a fusion of power, fate, and divinity.

Today's story takes us to a romantic yet fateful tale—Europa on the Bull. A mortal princess and a divine king incarnated as a bull. Their encounter changed the world map and gave rise to the name "Europe."

Europa, the innocent and lovely daughter of the Phoenician king, loved playing with her friends in the seaside meadows. One day, her smile was seen by Zeus from the distant heavens. The king of the gods was tempted, but unwilling to disturb a mortal, so he transformed himself into a docile bull and blended into the herd.

He approached gently, neither barging nor roaring, allowing Europa to pet him. When the bull gently knelt and motioned for her to mount, she leaped aboard, calling upon her companions to join him.

At that moment, the bull suddenly rose, charging toward the shore, treading the waves into the sea. Terrified, Europa clutched the bull's horns and prayed for safety. The bull carried her across the sea until dusk, arriving at the island of Crete.

After reaching shore, the bull vanished, and a handsome man stood before her, declaring, "I am the master of Crete. If you will marry me, I will protect you." Looking back at the endless sea, Europa reluctantly agreed. But when she awoke, she discovered the man beside her had vanished, leaving her furious and heartbroken at the deception.

At this moment, Aphrodite appeared and comforted her: "Fear not, beautiful girl. It is the god Zeus who bears you here. You will be blessed for your love with the god, and your name, Europa, will give name to this continent."

And so fate was rewritten. Europa found refuge in Crete. She bore Zeus three children: a princess, a bull, and a journey across the sea—a name that became the name of a continent.

This is "Europa on the Bull": a fascinating intersection of desire and tenderness, deception and protection, personal destiny and global geography.

Zeus' story constantly oscillates between love and power. In the next episode, we'll delve into another story with an even crueler fate: that of the innocent Callisto. Artemis's most loyal follower, she was caught up in a tragedy of jealousy and punishment because of Zeus's lust. It's a myth of purity, betrayal, and transformation, revealing the deepest ruthlessness of the gods and the struggle between human nature.

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods." Next time, we'll continue our journey through mythical time and space, exploring the love and wrath of the gods. See you next time—the story continues.

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Europa- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europa_(consort_of_Zeus)

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Hello everyone, and welcome back to "Greek Mythology Gods." In this mythological world steeped in legend and mystery, we'll once again embark on the journey of the gods, pursuing their glory and destiny, and listening to an epic symphony of power and fate.

Last season, we journeyed through the epic tapestry of Greek mythology: the revenge of Hephaestus, the pride of Apollo, the sacrifice of Asklepios, the friendship of Hyacinthus, the love and loss of Orpheus, the revelry of Dionysus, the hubris of Niobe, the wit of Hermes, the faith of Pygmalion, and the courage of Perseus. The glory and tragedy of the gods reveal the intertwined nature of humanity and fate.

Today, we begin a new chapter—entering a world woven together by power and lust, exploring the secrets of the King of the Gods. Welcome to a new season: "Zeus's Women," Chapter 1—Zeus's Wives. Here, we'll uncover the most complex and human love stories in the heavens.

Zeus, the third god king, was as powerful as his two predecessors, but he learned from past mistakes: women could both build and destroy kingships. Uranus was defeated by Gaia, the earth goddess, and Kronos was overthrown by his wife and children. Zeus decided to rewrite his destiny.

His first wife, Metis, the Oceanid, goddess of wisdom, and Zeus's first love, was prophesied to give birth to twins, a boy and a girl, with the son surpassing his father. Zeus chose a drastic solution: swallowing the pregnant Metis. Suffering from a splitting headache, Zeus ordered Hephaestus, the god of fire, to split his skull. Athena was born, but Metis remained inside his head.

His second wife, Themis, the embodiment of law and justice, a Titan goddess, bore Zeus the three goddesses of time and fate. From then on, the seasons rotated, fate continued, and the rules of marriage and family were established by her.

His third wife, Eurynome, the goddess of the sea. They gave birth to the three goddesses, who symbolized grace and became the social and aesthetic standards of Olympus.

The fourth was Demeter, goddess of agriculture, grain, and the harvest, one of the twelve principal deities. Her daughter with Zeus, Persephone, later became the Queen of the Underworld, connecting the cycles of spring birth and autumnrefrigeration.

The fifth was Mnemosyne, goddess of memory, writing, and speech, one of the Titans. She and Zeus gave birth to the nine Muses, providing the guardians of literature, music, and the arts.

The sixth was Leto, goddess of care and motherhood. She gave birth to Apollo and Artemis, illuminating the Greek faith with light and moonlight.

Finally, and most symbolically of all, was Hera, the wife. Goddess of marriage and childbirth, queen of the gods. With her "ox-eyed, white-armed" features, she exuded dignity and fierce jealousy. From this moment on, the institution of queens and the patriarchal order of Olympus were formally established.

Zeus' seven wives were both symbols of divine authority and the creators of order. Yet, even after Queen Hera ascended the throne of Olympus, Zeus's love remained steadfast. On the sun-kissed Mediterranean shores, a new legend quietly unfolds. Next episode: Europa on the Bull. Please continue following us as we witness another chapter in the myth of the King of the Gods.

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods." Next episode, we'll continue our journey into the fantastical world of ancient Greek mythology and encounter the gods once again—stay tuned! See you next time.

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Metis- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metis_(mythology)

Themis- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Themis

Demeter- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demeter

Leto- https://www.theoi.com/Titan/TitanisLeto.html

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Hello everyone, welcome back to "Greek Mythology Gods." In this mythical land steeped in legend and mystery, we'll embark on another journey of discovery—following the footsteps of the gods, listening to the whispers of fate, witnessing the intertwining of power and glory, and rekindling the ancient myths in our hearts.

Last episode, we told the story of the misogynistic sculptor Pygmalion. Driven by disappointment and heartbreak, he channeled his emotions into art, unexpectedly carving the perfect woman of his dreams. With the blessing of Aphrodite, the sculpture came to life. In that moment, he understood the power of faith and love.

Today, we embark on a new journey—following the warrior Perseus on an adventure filled with courage and miracles.

King Acrius received an oracle: his grandson would kill him. He imprisoned his daughter Danaë in a bronze tower, but fate proved futile. Danaë gave birth to a baby boy, Perseus. Horrified, the king placed mother and child in a wooden boxand threw them into the sea. Under the protection of the sea gods and the gentle waves, the wooden box drifted to the island of Seriphos. The fisherman Dictys rescued mother and child. The island's king, Polydectes, coveted Danae and plotted to eliminate Perseus.

The king, under the guise of a banquet, ordered Perseus to retrieve the head of the Gorgon Medusa. Guided by the gods, Perseus found the three Graeae sisters (daughters of Phorcys), took their shared eye, and extorted clues from them. He then obtained three magical items from the nymphs: flying shoes, a dog-skin helmet, and a magic bag. The messenger Hermes also gifted him a shield. With his back to Medusa, he used the shield's reflection to aim and decapitate her with a single blow, placing the head in the magic bag.

On his return journey, passing the Ethiopian coast, he saw Princess Andalomeda tied to a reef. This was punishment for the queen's boast that her daughter was more beautiful than that of Nereus, the sea god. Perseus made an engagementwith the king, then soared down, slew a sea monster, and rescued the princess. At the wedding, the princess's former lover and uncle, Phineus, intruded and caused trouble. Perseus revealed the head of Medusa, and the rebels were turned to stone.

Back on the island of Seriphos, Polydectes had become an unwavering tyrant. Perseus publicly removed the head of Medusa, instantly turning the king to stone. Ultimately, Dictys became the new king.

Having previously participated in a competition for the Pelasgian Kingdom, he accidentally struck his grandfather and returned to inherit his grandfather's kingdom of Argos.

The prophecy came true—not murder, but an ironic fulfillment of fate.

Perseus's adventures teach us that fate is inescapable, but courage and wisdom can overcome fear and create miracles.

Underneath all this lies Zeus, the ruler who controls the fate of the gods. He is powerful and wise, yet also possesses unbridled passion. Whether mortal maidens or goddesses, they have all been caught up in the mythical maelstrom of his desire and power. Next season, we'll delve into the emotional world of the God King—uncovering the stories of the women entangled with Zeus.

Thank you for listening. Ancient myths are never truly gone; they shine brightly between the stars and our hearts. See you next time.

For further reading, youcan refer to the following:

Perseus- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perseus

Dictys- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dictys

Andromeda- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andromeda_(mythology)

Polydectes- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polydectes

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Welcome back to "Greek Mythology Gods," where we once again journey into the mysterious world of mythology and explore the glory and fate of the gods.

Yesterday, we met Hermes, the wisest and most mischievous god in the heavens. He stole Apollo's cattle and played tricks on the gods, but he resolved conflicts with his wit, ultimately rising from a troublemaker to a symbol of wisdom.

Today, we'll explore a completely different mortal: the sculptor Pygmalion, who hated women but created his ideal lover.

In ancient Greece, there lived a skilled sculptor named Pygmalion. His works were so lifelike that even Hephaestus, the god of fire, became jealous. But strangely, he never carved images of women.

His childhood was deeply unfortunate—his mother's departure and his first love's betrayal left him with a fear and loathing of women. He vowed never to be associated with women and devoted his entire life to sculpture.

Until one day, he had a dream. In it, a beautiful woman appeared before him. Upon waking, the dream repelled him. But as he concentrated on carving, he was astonished to discover that his sculpture was the perfect woman of his dream.

When the statue was finished, Pygmalion was astonished. It was the most perfect work he had ever created, its beauty bordering on divine. He found himself falling in love with it. He dressed her and adorned her with ornaments, just as he would a true lover.

So, at a festival dedicated to Aphrodite, Pygmalion finally mustered the courage to pray to the goddess of love and beauty: "Great Aphrodite, please grant me a wife like my statue." When he returned home, the cold statue had gradually warmed and softened—she had come to life.

Pygmalion and her successfully married and had a son named Paphos. Legend has it that there was a city dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite by this name.

Later, psychologists used the term "Pygmalion Effect" to explain the power of belief. It means that when you truly believe in something, it will come true.

In the next episode, we'll begin a new chapter in "Greek Mythology Gods"，the adventures of Perseus. Son of Zeus and Danae, he survived an abandoned wooden chest and grew up to become a destined hero. He embarked on a quest to slay the Gorgon Medusa. Guided by the gods, armed with a mirror shield and clad in flying boots, he bravely rewrote hisdestiny.

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods." Next time, we'll continue to take you on a journey through mythical time and space, exploring the glory and legends of the ancient Greek gods. See you next time.

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Pygmalion- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pygmalion_(mythology)

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Hello everyone, welcome back to "Greek Mythology Gods"—in this mysterious mythological world, let's continue following the footsteps of the gods and uncovering legendary stories of fate and power.

Yesterday, we recounted the tragedy of Niobe—who, arrogantly boasting of her many children, mocked the goddess Leto, ultimately losing her family and happiness, and becoming a stone statue weeping forever. Her arrogance led her to despair, and fate shows no mercy to the conceited.

Today, we take a different approach and meet a clever and mischievous god—Hermes, the celestial messenger, god of thieves, and jokes.

Hermes, the son of Zeus and Maia, was gifted with intelligence and eloquence. He was the god of messengers, commerce, travel, and thieves. He loved pranks since childhood. One day, he found a turtle sunning itself on the beach and immediately had an idea: to use the turtle shell as material for a lyre.

But that wasn't the end. That night, he sneaked into the pastures of Apollo, the god of light, and stole several cattle. He lit a bonfire and offered the cattle as sacrifices to the Twelve Olympians, one of whom was himself.

The next day, Apollo discovered the cattle were missing and was furious. But when he tracked down Hermes, the god feigned innocence, his eyes wide open, and he declared, "I've never seen your cattle!" Furious, Apollo handed the case over to Zeus.

Zeus, realizing they were both his sons, laughed heartily. To settle the dispute, Hermes gave Apollo his handmade lyre, and Apollo, in return, gave him a golden whip and commissioned him to herd the cattle.

However, Hermes' mischievous nature remained. He stole Poseidon's trident, Aphrodite's belt, and even the sword of Ares, the god of war.

One day, he transformed into a mortal and walked into a sculpture shop. He asked the owner, "How much is a statue of Zeus?" The owner replied, "One silver coin." "What about Hera's?" The owner thought for a moment and said, "A little more expensive, two silver coins." Hermes smiled and pointed to his own statue, then asked, "What about this one?" The owner replied, "Buy the first two, and this one will be a gift."

Hermes was stunned—it turned out that he wasn't that important in the eyes of mortals. At that moment, his self-esteem was shattered, and he became more restrained.

From a mischievous child to a god of wisdom, Hermes' actions show us that intelligence is a gift, while wisdom is the product of growth.

Tomorrow, we will explore the story of the sculptor Pygmalion. Driven by childhood trauma and failed love affairs, he hated women and devoted all his passion to art. One night, he dreamed of a perfect woman. He carved her likeness from ivory and prayed at an altar to Aphrodite. Thus, a miracle intertwined between fate and divine providence was born—stay tuned for "The Misogynistic Pygmalion."

Thank you for listening to "Greek Mythology Gods". See you next time!

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Hermes- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermes

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/

Hello everyone, welcome back to "Greek Mythology Gods"! This is the gateway to the depths of mythology, where the ancient gods whisper and fate and power intertwine. Let us embark on a journey filled with wonder and awe, pursuing theglory of Olympus and its eternal legends!

Last episode, we told the story of Dionysus, the god of wine—he brings joy but also punishes. Pentheus's disrespect for the gods led to his brutal annihilation, a reminder of the world's fear of power. Today's story is equally filled with irony and a twist of fate—because of a boast, tragedy strikes again.

Niobe, the wife of King Amphion, was of noble birth and extraordinary beauty. She had seven sons and seven daughters. She proudly believed herself to be more worthyof worship than the goddess Leto—after all, she had so many children, while Leto had only two: Apollo and Artemis.

At a festival, Niobe openly mocked Leto and ordered the people to stop worshipping the "pitiful goddess." Her arrogance infuriated Leto, who sent her children, Apollo and Artemis, to punish her. In a flash, Niobe's seven sons were slain by divine arrows. When the news reached the palace, KingAmphion, overcome with grief, committed suicide.

Desperate, Niobe raged against Leto, claiming she was still more fortunate than the goddess—she still had seven daughters. However, the goddess's wrath did not subside. In a flash, her seven daughters fell one by one. Looking at the bodies of her loved ones scattered on the ground, Niobe's heart shattered into ashes, tears streaming down her face.

Eventually, her body stiffened, turning to a cold stone. But her eyes continued to shed tears—tears that never ceased.

To this day, a statue of Niobe stands on a hillside near the ruins of Thebes, Greece. Her face, etched with sorrow, seems to express a mother's eternal sorrow.

—Hubris makes the gods weep; tragedy, it is remembered forever.

This is "Greek Mythology Gods," where the stories of the gods reflect the light and shadow of human nature.

Next episode, we'll delve into the legendary story of the "Heavenly Naughty Boy"—"Hermes the Mischievous." Stay tuned!

For further reading, you can refer to the following:

Niobe- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niobe

Leto- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leto

If you’d like to dive deeper beyond the stories, you can also explore sculptures inspired by these myths here:

https://www.greekartshop.com/

https://www.arturbanstatue.com/other-product/greek-and-roman-statues/