Ares

** God of War ** Ares is the god of many things, including warfare, violence, manliness, civil order, city defense, and war booty. He is mainly known as the god of war, however, blood lust or slaughter better suits him. Although Athena is the god of war as well, she is more about strategic warfare. Ares is about unpredictable violence.
 * Ares **

Ares is one of the few legitimate children of Zeus and Hera. When he was born, both Zeus and Hera shunned him. In fact, he is one of the most hated Olympians because of his rage and violent tendencies. He now dwells in the island of Thrace, known for its warlike people.
 * Origin **

Ares has been said to be the patron of Thrace.
 * Patron **

Ares' symbols include things associated with warfare. Symbols such as the spear, helmet, shield, armor, and chariot. Actually, his personal chariot was drawn by four gold-bridled, fire-emitting, immortal stallions. Some of his other symbols are animals such as the serpent, wild dog, red or roan horses, and vulture. Other symbols include the Planet Mars, Tuesday, the color red, and the Areopagus.
 * Symbols **

** Greek and Roman ** Ares' Roman counterpart is Mars. Unlike Ares who is despised, Mars is respected. The difference between the two gods is that Mars is less violent and prone to rage. Mars is also the god of agriculture and fertility. Mars is benevolent and revered, while Ares is feared and despised. They're both the god of war, however, Ares is associated with death and Mars is associated with death. Mars is said to be father of Romulus and Remus, who were the founders of Rome.

Being the god of war, Ares is usually respected before a war. Sacrifices are usually made in order to appease Ares and have success in their battle. During the War of the Seven against Thebes, a prophet said that if any one of the Spartoi should offer himself as a sacrifice, they would win the war. It is well documented that statues of Ares were placed outside of cities for protection against invading countries.
 * Warfare in Greece **

Ares is the son of Zeus and Hera. His sister, Eris, who is god of discord, often is associated with him. He has many children. His most well-known children are Deimos (god of fear), Eros (AKA Cupid), Harmonia (goddess of harmony), and Phobos (god of panic). Deimos and Phobos often accompany him into war. Deimos and Phobos are also coincidently the moons of Mars. Ares is not married, however, he has many affairs with Aphrodite. When Hephaestus captured them together in a net, the other Olympians looked at Ares with amusement and envy.
 * Family **

**Modern Links** Ares and Mars are still present in today's society. Ares is a space shuttle, just like Apollo or Mercury. He is also a well known car model. Mars is the name of the fourth planet from the sun. Also, there is a candy bar called a Mars Bars. Ares is often cast in video games, such as God of War.

When Poseidon's son, Hallirhothios, raped Alkippe, Ares' daughter, Ares promptly slew him. He was accused of murder and was part of the first ever murder trial in history. He was tried at Areopagus, a hill near the Acropolis. **
 * Murder