The VERY Messed Up Origins of Hades | Disney Explained - Jon Solo

Jon Solo15 minutes read

Skillshare sponsors Jon Solo in an episode discussing Disney's Hercules, focusing on Hades' character differences between Disney and Greek mythology, his origins, role as god of the dead, and punishments for rulebreakers. Zeus plays a significant role in Hades' story, highlighting their relationship and conflicts within Greek mythology.

Insights

  • Hades, often portrayed as a villain in Disney's Hercules, has a more nuanced and less malevolent nature in Greek mythology, associated with the underworld and Earth's resources, managing the souls of the deceased with stern objectivity.
  • The mythological origins of Hades, his family ties to the Titans Kronos and Rhea, his relationship with Zeus, and his abduction of Persephone leading to the seasonal cycle are key elements discussed, shedding light on his complex character beyond the typical villainous depiction.

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Recent questions

  • Who is Hades in Greek mythology?

    Hades is the god of the dead in Greek mythology, ruling the underworld and managing the souls of the deceased.

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Summary

00:00

"Exploring Hades: Disney Villain to Mythological God"

  • Skillshare sponsors the episode, hosted by Jon Solo, focusing on Disney Explained, breaking down elements of Disney movies for deeper understanding.
  • Jon Solo discusses Hercules and his adventures, previously covering his life on Earth and the 12 Labors for King Eurystheus.
  • The episode shifts focus to Hades, the god of the dead in Disney's Hercules, portrayed as a villain but not as malevolent in Greek mythology.
  • Hades' true story in Greek and Roman mythology is explored, highlighting his feared but less malevolent nature.
  • Skillshare is mentioned as a sponsor again, offering over 25,000 classes in various areas for learning and skill enhancement.
  • Hades' origins are traced back to his parents, the Titans Kronos and Rhea, and his birth amidst a prophecy of overthrowing his father.
  • Zeus, Hades' brother, is revealed as the one who led the war against the Titans, eventually assigning Hades the underworld by chance.
  • Hades' character in mythology is discussed, portraying him as rich and associated with the Earth's resources, receiving sacrifices and offerings.
  • Hades' role as the god of the dead is detailed, emphasizing his stern and objective nature in managing the souls of the deceased.
  • Specific individuals like Sisyphus and Asclepius are mentioned as rulebreakers who faced Hades' severe punishments for defying death.

10:45

Greek Mythology: Gods, Demigods, and Consequences

  • Asclepius, a demigod, was struck down by Zeus but later became the god of medicine on Mount Olympus, avoiding consequences.
  • Pirithous attempted to kidnap Hades' queen Persephone and was punished by being bound to the chair of forgetfulness for eternity.
  • Hades rarely left the underworld, wearing a helmet of invisibility when he did, obtained from a Cyclops during the Titan war.
  • Hades fell in love with Persephone, abducted her to the underworld, leading to the compromise that she would spend part of the year on Earth, causing the cycle of seasons.
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