Ares was the god of war, or more precisely of warlike frenzy. He was the son of Zeus and Hera. He was full of action and determination disliked by many Olympians but was loved by Aphrodite. His throne on Mount Olympus was said to be covered in human skin. When he was fighting on the side of the Trojans he was wounded by Pallas Athene. She put on the helm of Death and, after bending his spear, hurled a bolder at him, knocking him down senseless.

He was assisted from the field of battle by Aphrodite. When Ares retreated to Mount Olympus, he received scant sympathy from his father Zeus who said to him, "To me you are most hateful of all gods who hold Olympus."

Though an immortal deity, he was bested by Herakles in battle and was almost killed when stuffed into a jar by two giants.

Sometimes Ares was accompanied into battle by his sister, Eris (Goddess of Discord) and Hades. Ares was the father of Deimos (Fear), Phobos (Terror), and Kyknos. Kyknos was killed by Herakles but Ares was unable to return the punishment of death because Zeus would not permit him (his least favourite son) to harm his favourite son, Herakles. Although he was hated and feared, Ares was honoured by many great warriors, including Herakles.

In appearance, Ares was handsome and cruel. He is often depicted carrying a bloodstained spear.