The Gigantomachy

Heracles was enlisted as the token mortal, necessary for victory, in the Olympian gods’ battle against the Giants. This chapter concentrates on the surviving ancient portrayals of Heracles’ participation in the battle, in which he fights paired with Zeus, his father, or Athena, his mentor, and employing his iconic bow, although some compositions require that he wield his characteristic club as well. It is asked what actions he performed and why he deserved immortality for the task. The manner in which hero’s actions were valorized in particular pieces of literature or art is also explored. The myth seems to be used as political allegory, the gigantic enemies referencing Persians, Galatians, or political adversaries to fit the times.