The spelling of the word "Herakles" is derived from the Greek language. The correct pronunciation is [ˈherəkliːz], which is indicated by the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The phonetic transcription shows that the word begins with the "h" sound, followed by a short "e" sound and a rolling "r." The "a" sound is pronounced like "uh," and the following "k" sound is hard. The "l" and "e" sounds are pronounced as separate syllables, while the final "s" is not pronounced.
Herakles, also known as Hercules, is a prominent figure in Greek mythology and is one of the most famous heroes of antiquity. He is described as a demigod, being the son of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Alcmene, a mortal woman.
The name "Herakles" originates from the Greek words "heros" meaning hero, and "kleos" meaning glory or fame. Thus, the name itself signifies the heroic nature and illustrious reputation of this legendary figure.
Herakles is renowned for his extraordinary strength and courage. He is often depicted as a muscular man wearing a lion's skin as a symbol of his lion-slaying prowess, and holding a club as his weapon of choice. His iconic twelve labors, which were tasks assigned to him as a penance for committing a crime, are among his most notable feats.
Throughout Greek mythology, Herakles is portrayed as a figure who displayed valor, resilience, and ingenuity in facing various foes and challenges. He is often depicted as striving for justice and protecting the innocent, making him an enduring symbol of heroism.
Moreover, Herakles has influenced various aspects of culture, including literature, art, and popular media. His name and stories continue to be invoked as a representation of strength, bravery, and determination in the face of adversity. In contemporary society, the term "herculean" is commonly used to describe a task or challenge that requires immense strength or effort.
The word "Herakles" is the Latinized form of the Greek name "Heraklēs" (Ἡρακλῆς). The Greek name is a compound made up of two components: "Hera" (Ἥρα) and "kleos" (κλέος).
"Hera" refers to the Greek goddess Hera, the queen of the gods and the wife of Zeus. She played a significant role in the myths and legends surrounding Herakles.
"Kleos" means "glory", "renown", or "fame" in Greek. It represents the hero's reputation and achievements.
Combining the two components, "Herakles" roughly translates to "the glory of Hera" or "Hera's fame". This name reflects Herakles' mythological connection to Hera, as well as his renowned heroic deeds.