Anicetus (Ancient Greek: Ἀνίκητος, romanized: Aníkētos, meaning "Unconquerable") and Alexiares (Ancient Greek: Ἀλεξιάρης, romanized: Alexiárēs, meaning "Warding-Off-War") are minor deities in Greek mythology. They are the immortal sons of Heracles, the greatest of the Greek heroes, and Hebe, the goddess of youth.[1] They were likely responsible for the protection and fortification of towns and citadels and may have been regarded as gatekeepers of Olympus, a role often associated with their father, Heracles.[2] Their birth occurred after Heracles' mortal death and subsequent ascent to Olympus.[3] Some sources suggest that during their birth, Hebe was assisted by her sister, Eiliethyia, the goddess of childbirth.[4]

Their names translate from Greek as "Unconquerable" and "Warding-Off-War," signifying their roles and invincible nature.[5]

There is evidence suggesting that Anicetus and Alexiares might have been worshipped in places such as Thebes and Rhodes.[6] However, due to the scarcity of historical records, the exact nature and extent of their cult are uncertain.[7]

References

  1. ^ "Alexiares". Theoi Greek Mythology. Retrieved August 4, 2023.
  2. ^ "Alexiares". Theoi Greek Mythology. Retrieved August 4, 2023.
  3. ^ "Alexiares". Theoi Greek Mythology. Retrieved August 4, 2023.
  4. ^ "Alexiares". Theoi Greek Mythology. Retrieved August 4, 2023.
  5. ^ "Alexiares". Theoi Greek Mythology. Retrieved August 4, 2023.
  6. ^ Roisman, Hanna M. (2013). The Encyclopedia of Greek Tragedy. Wiley–Blackwell.
  7. ^ Roisman, Hanna M. (2013). The Encyclopedia of Greek Tragedy. Wiley–Blackwell.
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