Hades

 God of the Underworld

Bust of Hades (9)

In Greek mythology, Hades is the god and king of the Underworld, ruling over the realm of the dead. Hades is often portrayed as a villain and a figure of darkness. However, beneath this misunderstood exterior lies a complex character. From his association with powerful symbols like the Cerberus and Helm of Darkness to his intricate relationship with Persephone, Hades is rich with depth and significance. He is far from being just an average villain, but rather someone who embodies themes of power and the unseen forces that shape life and death. As we unravel his persona, we discover why he continues to be one of the most fascinating figures in ancient mythology and modern retellings. 

The Origin of Hades

Hades is the son of the Titans, Cronus and Rhea, and the brother of Zeus, Poseidon, Hera, Demeter, and Hestia. Although Hades is one of the original Olympian gods, he doesn't reside in Mount Olympus along with his siblings. After the Titans were overthrown, Hades was left to rule the Underworld, ensuring balance and order in the afterlife (2). Contrary to belief, the Underworld is not a place of punishment, but rather a space for souls to transition and move on that is overlooked by Hades' authority (11). 

In addition to overseeing the dead, Hades possesses vast powers. He controls the spirits of the dead and can summon and command them. His abilities also extend to overseeing the trial and punishment of the corrupt who defy the natural order. Hades also rules the earth’s hidden riches such as precious metals, gems, and fertile soil. Furthermore, he can manipulate the earth, causing it to open or close, which represents control over the transition between life and the afterlife (7). 

Prominent Symbols

Statue of Hades and Cerberus (1)

Hades is often depicted with several iconic symbols that emphasize his rule over the Underworld and his power as a god. One of the most well-known symbols is his three-headed dog, Cerberus. This terrifying creature guards the gates of the Underworld, ensuring that the dead can't leave, and the living can't enter. Similar to Poseidon's trident, Hades commands the Bident, a two-prolonged weapon that signifies his power over the dead. Lastly, Hades was gifted the Helm of Darkness from the Cyclopes. This helmet grants Hades the ability to become invisible, representing the unseen and mysterious aspects. These symbols collectively emphasize Hades’ essential role in maintaining a balance between life and death. Through these powerful symbols, Hades is depicted as a god who rules not only the realm of the dead but also the unseen aspects of the world, bridging the gap between life, death, and everything in between (6).

Abduction or Love?

Painting of Persephone's Abduction by Jean Francois de Troy (3)

Among the most famous myths involving Hades is his abduction of Persephone, the daughter of Demeter. This myth depicts the story of how Hades kidnapped Persephone to make her his queen. Demeter, the goddess of harvest, was shattered by her daughter's abduction. After nine days, Demeter learned from Hecate (Goddess of Witchcraft) and Helios (God of the Sun) that Zeus had allowed Hades to take Persephone as his wife. Enraged, Demeter refused to return to Olympus or let crops grow. Fearing for humanity, Zeus sent Hermes to retrieve Persephone, and Hades agreed but gave her pomegranate seeds before she left. Since she ate the seeds, Persephone was bound to the Underworld. As a compromise, it was decided that Persephone would spend part of the year with Hades in the Underworld and the rest with her mother, Demeter, on Earth. This split time between the two realms was believed to explain the seasons. Persephone’s time in the Underworld represented the cold winter, while her return to her mother brought spring and the rebirth of life (5).

Though Hades’ actions might seem cruel, the myth is often seen as reflecting a necessary balance between life and death. Some modern versions of the story focus on the relationship between Hades and Persephone, showing it as one of mutual respect. Instead of just being an abduction story, newer interpretations suggest that their bond is deeper, offering a more complex view of Hades as both a ruler and a partner in the natural cycles of life (5).

Modern Retellings

While the ancient myths provide a detailed image of Hades, his character continues to evolve in modern retellings. Hades has been reimagined in various lights, bringing new insights to his persona. 

Persephone and Hades in the musical "Hadestown" (12)

"Hadestown" is a Tony Award-winning musical by Anais Mitchell that reimagines the Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone in a contemporary, Depression-era, industrialized setting. Blending American folk and jazz, the story follows Orpheus, a musician who descends into Hadestown, an oppressive underworld ruled by Hades, to rescue Eurydice. (Watch this trailer)

Hades, portrayed as a businessman-like figure, controls the Underworld with an iron fist. In this version, Hades’ relationship with Persephone is key to his character, highlighting a constant tension between power and freedom. The musical presents Hades as a god who struggles with the consequences of his own control, and his strained relationship with Persephone reflects his vulnerability. While Hades maintains his authoritarian rule, the musical suggests that he, too, is caught in a cycle of sacrifice, power, and love, portraying him as both a ruler and a tragic figure. Through this interpretation, Hades is reimagined not just as the villain but as a complex god dealing with the consequences of his actions and his emotions (8).

Persephone and Hades in Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe (13)

Rachel Smythe's Lore Olympus also reimagines Hades and Persephone in a modern, celebrity-like Olympus. With stunning artwork and mature themes, the series has won Eisner and Harvey Awards and inspired a

bestselling graphic novel series. The webtoon follows Persephone, a sheltered young goddess, who moves to Olympus for school and meets Hades. Hades is the handsome, mysterious ruler of the Underworld, portrayed as a god who is deeply affected by his isolation and responsibility (10). Instead of the traditional image of a cold, distant ruler, Hades in Lore Olympus is shown as vulnerable and empathetic, struggling with loneliness and the burden of being the god of the dead. His relationship with Persephone is central to the story, evolving from one of initial intrigue to a deeper, more compassionate connection. In this version, their dynamic is more mutual, as Persephone is not simply a victim of abduction but a strong and assertive character who builds her own power within Olympus. Hades’ love for her is not possessive but one based on respect and understanding. His character is portrayed as someone trying to reconcile his identity as a god of death with his personal desires for connection (4). As they navigate their growing connection, they face toxic relationships, trauma, and societal expectations, while uncovering Olympian secrets and power struggles. (Watch this trailer). 

Final Thoughts

Hades is one of the most compelling figures in Greek mythology. His power and complexity make him an endlessly fascinating subject of study. From his iconic symbols to his dynamic relationships with Persephone, Hades remains a god of mystery and authority. Whether in ancient myths or modern retellings, Hades' story continues to evolve, capturing the imaginations of audiences around the world.

 

Works Cited 

(1) Anfossi, Kate. “CERBERUS.” Pinterest, 25 Mar. 2013, www.pinterest.com/pin/369998925610222016/. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

(2) Cartwright, Mark. “Hades.” World History Encyclopedia, Mark Cartwright, 19 July 2012, www.worldhistory.org/Hades/.

(3) “French School, 18th Century , the Abduction of Proserpine | Christie’s.” Christies.com, Christie’s, 2020, www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5176054.

(4) “Hades.” Lore Olympus Wiki, lore-olympus.fandom.com/wiki/Hades.

(5) “Hades, God of the Underworld and His Unsung Powers.” Ancient-Origins.net, Ancient Origins, 12 Oct. 2019, www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends-europe/hades-0012712.

(6) larkem.inc@gmail.com. “Hades Symbol, Meanings and Myths of the God - Avid Archer.” Avid Archer, 21 July 2024, avid-archer.com/hades-symbol-meanings-myths-god-of-underworld/.

(7) Madeleine. “What Are Hades Powers That Are Really Scary? -.” Theoi.com, 26 Nov. 2019, www.theoi.com/articles/what-are-hades-powers/.

(8) Millward, Tom. “Everything You Need to Know about “Hadestown” on Broadway at the Walter Kerr Theatre.” New York Theatre Guide, 15 May 2019, www.newyorktheatreguide.com/theatre-news/news/a-new-york-theatre-guide-to-hadestown.

(9) Moutzouri, Vasiliki. “Hades Olympian God of the Underworld | King of the Dead.” Olympioi | the Ancient Greek Gods | Myths & Monsters, 23 Aug. 2023, olympioi.com/greek-gods/hades.

(10) New Book Recommendation, and New Book Recommendation. “Summary of “Lore Olympus, Volume 1” by Rachel Smythe.” New Book Recommendation, 30 July 2024, newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-lore-olympus-volume-1-by-rachel-smythe/. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

(11) The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica. “Hades | Mythology & Facts.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 7 Feb. 2018, www.britannica.com/topic/Hades-Greek-mythology.

(12) “Website Filtered.” Newyorktheater.me, 2025, newyorktheater.me/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/HADESTOWN_3575.jpg. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

(13) Srcdn.com, 2025, static1.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Lore-Olympus-1.jpg. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.