Hades, the Greek god of the Underworld, often evokes images of darkness and fear. But there's far more to this enigmatic deity than meets the eye. Brother to Zeus and Poseidon, Hades drew the short straw when dividing the cosmos, inheriting the realm of the dead.
Contrary to popular belief, Hades wasn't evil. He was a stern, just, and uncompromising ruler, ensuring order within his domain. He wasn't the bringer of death; that was Thanatos's job. Hades simply maintained the Underworld and prevented the dead from escaping.
His famous abduction of Persephone, though controversial, solidified his role. He wasn't a frequent visitor to Olympus, preferring the somber company of the souls under his care. While feared, Hades was also respected for his power and unwavering commitment to his duties. So, next time you hear the name Hades, remember him not just as a ruler of darkness, but as a key figure in maintaining the balance of the Greek cosmos.