Greek MythsTitans

Atlas and Heracles

Heracles uses his wits to outsmart the Titan Atlas and escape a weight too heavy for any mortal.

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Illustration for Atlas and Heracles - a titans Greek Myths story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

In the legend of Atlas and Heracles, a hero and a Titan trade the weight of the heavens. Discover how wit triumphs over strength in this classic Greek myth.

Tasked with his eleventh labor, the hero Heracles sought the golden apples of the Hesperides. Knowing only the Titan Atlas could retrieve them, Heracles traveled to the edge of the world where Atlas stood condemned by Zeus to hold the celestial sphere upon his shoulders. Heracles offered a deal: he would bear the weight of the heavens if Atlas would fetch the apples. Relieved to be free, Atlas agreed. However, upon his return with the fruit, Atlas tasted liberty and refused to take the burden back, offering instead to deliver the apples himself. Recognizing the trap, Heracles feigned agreement but asked Atlas to hold the sky for just a moment longer so he could fold a cloak to pad his aching shoulders. The unsuspecting Titan set down the apples and took the sphere back. In an instant, Heracles snatched the golden prizes and made his escape, leaving Atlas to his eternal punishment.

The Moral

Physical strength is a great asset, but it is easily defeated by a quick and clever mind.

“Wit is the lever that moves the world when strength alone falters.”

Fun Fact

The word 'atlas,' used to describe a book of maps, originates from this Titan, though the term was first used this way by the cartographer Mercator in the 16th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Atlas and Heracles?

The story teaches that intelligence and quick thinking are often more valuable than raw physical power. It also serves as a warning against being easily deceived when one is desperate for relief from a burden.

Why was Atlas holding up the sky?

Atlas was a leader of the Titans during the war against the Olympian gods. After the Titans were defeated, Zeus punished him by forcing him to hold up the celestial heavens for eternity.

How did Heracles trick Atlas back?

Heracles pretended to accept his new role but asked Atlas to hold the sky for a few seconds so he could put a cushion on his shoulders. When Atlas took the weight, Heracles walked away.

What were the golden apples of the Hesperides?

The golden apples were a wedding gift from Gaia to Hera. They were kept in a garden guarded by the Hesperides, nymphs of the evening, and a hundred-headed dragon named Ladon.

Was this one of Heracles' twelve labors?

Yes, fetching the golden apples was the eleventh labor of Heracles. It was originally intended to be his final task before two earlier labors were disqualified by King Eurystheus.

Does Atlas hold the Earth or the sky?

In original Greek mythology, Atlas holds up the celestial sphere (the sky). However, in modern art and popular culture, he is frequently misdepicted as holding the terrestrial globe of Earth.