Why Ares Is My Least Favorite Greek God: An Exploratory Analysis

When discussing Greek mythology, Ares often comes up as a subject of fascination for many, but for me, Ares falls short due to his nature and behavior in the mythological world. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why I find Ares to be my least favorite Greek god and explore the broader implications of his portrayal in the mythological texts.

Understanding Ares in Greek Mythology

Ares, the Greek god of war, is not as glamorous or revered as some of his peers, such as Athena, the goddess of wisdom and strategy, or Apollo, the god of music and healing. My stance against Ares is not solely based on his actions, but rather his lack of character and his association with senseless conflicts. For example, the existence of Ares in the Greek pantheon could be explained by the reality of meaningless wars in which people engage in senseless killing, mirroring ancient human experiences and conflicts.

One of the key points that resonates with my view of Ares is his behavior. Unlike Athena, who is often depicted as rational and strategic, Ares is frequently portrayed as impulsive and bloodthirsty, often losing sight of the consequences of his actions. This is evident in his ability to switch sides in the Trojan war without remorse, taking lives without thought or consideration. Additionally, his actions are often driven by personal vendettas rather than noble causes, which strikes me as deeply problematic.

Personal and Mythological Insights into Ares

A further reason for my dislike of Ares is his portrayal in the myths. In the Iliad and other works, Ares is depicted as a force of chaos and destruction, with little regard for the moral or ethical implications of his actions. His involvement in the Trojan war and his relationship with Aphrodite are prime examples of his lack of character and his willingness to engage in behaviors that are not just harmful but also senseless.

It's not just Ares who is problematic; his father, Zeus, is also part of the equation. Zeus himself has a complex relationship with Ares, often criticizing his actions and even declaring him to be his least favorite of all the Olympians due to his ruthless nature. This highlights a broader issue within the pantheon: the Greek gods often engage in their own human-like behaviors, with some actions being justified and others not.

Alternatives to Ares

When considering the Greek pantheon, I find that there are many better choices than Ares. For instance, Athena, known for her wisdom and strategic thinking, is a much more palatable figure. Unlike Ares, she is a mountain of intellect and strategy, always thinking of the greater good. Similarly, Hephaestus, the god of craftsmanship, also offers a more positive and less problematic alternative to Ares.

When asked about the least favorite Greek gods, my list would include Ares, Zeus, Hera, and Aphrodite. Each of these gods has their fair share of negative traits, but for various reasons, Ares stands out. Hera, for instance, can be cruel and vindictive, while Aphrodite can be just as unreasonable in her actions. The gods are all flawed in different ways, but Ares is particularly hard for me to stomach.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ares is my least favorite Greek god primarily because of his impulsive and destructive behavior, his lack of character, and his association with meaningless and senseless violence. While other gods such as Athena and Hephaestus offer more positive alternatives, Ares remains a figure that must be critically examined and often, avoided in discussions about the Greek pantheon. As we continue to explore the myths and legends of ancient Greece, it is important to consider the lessons these stories can teach us about human nature and the importance of wisdom and strategic thinking.