Greek mythology

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Greek mythology Collection of stories mainly concerning the adventures of gods and heroes. In the myths, the gods are not wholly admirable figures: they have similar weaknesses to humans and are capable of great vindictiveness, revenge, and favouritism. Greek myths were often explanatory, offering answers to questions of human nature and the universe, clarifying abstract ideas, or explaining religious matters in a more rational manner. From the time of Homer (9th century bc), Greek polytheism formed a coherent system with a pantheon of 12 deities who dwelt on Mount Olympus: Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Aphrodite, Hephaestus, Ares, Demeter, Hestia, and Hermes. Major religious centres included Delphi and Olympia.

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