Greek mythology is a collection of myths and legends belonging to the ancient Greeks concerning their gods, heroes, and the nature of the cosmos. These stories were initially spread through oral tradition, possibly starting as early as the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations around the 18th century BC. Eventually, they became part of Homer's epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey. These myths served various purposes in ancient Greek society, including explaining the origins of the world, natural phenomena, and guiding people through life stages while sustaining social values.
The Greek pantheon is populated by gods and goddesses with human-like appearances and personalities, often characterized by arguments, love affairs, jealousy, and revenge. The most powerful of these were the twelve Olympians, who resided on Mount Olympus and ruled over various aspects of human life. Zeus, for example, was the chief deity and god of weather, while Athena was the goddess of war, handicraft, and practical reason. The myths also feature heroes like Heracles, Achilles, and Odysseus, who embody bravery and the struggle between good and evil. These myths have had a lasting impact on Western culture, influencing art, literature, and modern-day Greece, shaping its values, traditions, and identity.
