Hercules is the personification of physical strength and valour. He is a god – part of ancient mythology – but he is also a hero. The myth tells us that Hercules’s mother, Alcmene, was human, whereas his father was the god Jupiter. Hercules was the result of what Juno, Jupiter’s wife, considered to be one Jupiter’s far too numerous affairs. The conception had taken place at a time when Alcmene’s husband Amphitryon was absent. Juno was jealous. And Hercules was going to feel that. While he was still a small child, Juno sent two poisonous snakes into his room during the night to kill him. But brave as he was, Hercules caught the snakes – one in each hand. And strong as he was, he strangled both of them with his hands. Alcmene and Amphitryon could only watch in amazement.
Hercules has been one of the most popular mythological figures over the ages. The Roman emperors were fond of being seen in postures reminiscent of Hercules. Hercules was also popular among the artists, not least the sculptors, including Thorvaldsen. However, no sculptures of the infant Hercules by Thorvaldsen are known.
