Story Summary
Discover the ninth labor of Hercules and the Belt of Hippolyta. Witness a legendary tale where diplomatic hope turns into a tragic battle due to Hera's spite.
For his ninth labor, King Eurystheus commanded Hercules to retrieve the golden belt of Hippolyta, the Queen of the Amazons, as a gift for the king's daughter. Hercules traveled to the land of Themiscyra with a band of heroes, prepared for a fierce battle. To his surprise, Queen Hippolyta welcomed him with honor. Impressed by his exploits, she agreed to give him the belt freely as a gesture of respect. However, the goddess Hera, determined to see Hercules fail, disguised herself as an Amazon and spread a rumor that the Greeks intended to kidnap the Queen. Panicked and enraged, the Amazon warriors mounted their horses and attacked Hercules's camp. Believing Hippolyta had orchestrated a treacherous ambush, Hercules slew the Queen in the heat of the fray, took the belt, and fought his way back to his ship. He returned to Eurystheus successful, yet burdened by the tragic cost of a peace destroyed by divine deception.
The Moral
Deception and impulsive reactions can turn a peaceful agreement into a tragedy. It serves as a warning that external interference and misinformation can blind even the strongest to the truth.
“Even the strongest hero can be blinded by the shadows of a goddess's spite.”
Fun Fact
The 'belt' mentioned in the myth was likely a 'zoster,' a heavy leather girdle used by warriors to support their weapons and protect their midsection in battle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Hercules and the Belt of Hippolyta?
The story warns how rumors and external interference can destroy peaceful resolutions. It highlights the tragedy of unnecessary conflict between two noble parties who initially intended no harm.
Why did Hercules need the belt of Hippolyta?
King Eurystheus ordered it as the ninth labor because his daughter, Admete, wanted the beautiful golden belt for herself. It was a symbol of Hippolyta's authority as the Queen of the Amazons.
Who gave the belt to Hippolyta originally?
The belt was a gift from Ares, the god of war, signifying Hippolyta's rank as the leader of the Amazon warriors. It possessed magical properties that symbolized her power and prowess.
How did Hera interfere with Hercules's ninth labor?
Hera disguised herself as an Amazon warrior and spread a false rumor among the tribe that Hercules was kidnapping their queen. This sparked a violent battle that forced Hercules to fight the very people he had just befriended.
Did Hippolyta die in the original myth?
In most classical versions of the myth, Hercules kills Hippolyta during the confusion of the battle, believing she had betrayed him. However, some variations suggest she survived or was eventually married to Theseus.
Was the ninth labor of Hercules considered a success?
Yes, Hercules successfully brought the belt back to King Eurystheus. However, the victory was bittersweet due to the unnecessary bloodshed and the death of a queen who had initially offered the belt willingly.
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