Hercules was the son of Zeus and Hera. In Greek, his name is Heracles. Hercules performed twelve great labors, represented by the Twelve Signs of the Zodiac, and eight heroic deeds. Hercules was given credit for abolishing human sacrifice in Italy.

He was one of the favorites among the gods. Apollo made Hercules's bows and arrows;Hermes gave him his sword; Castor taught Hercules how to use the sword; Hephaestus made a golden breastplate for him; and Athene gave him a magnificent robe.