Metaphysical Properties

In Greek mythology, Ares is the god of war, courage, and brutality. He is the son of Zeus and Hera, and one of the Twelve Olympians. 

Meaning

• Battle: Ares is the spirit of battle, and represents the physical valor needed to win war. 

• Bloodlust: Ares is known for his bloodlust and ability to destroy walls and sack cities. 

• Violence: Ares embodies the violent and untamed aspects of war. 

Other characteristics

• Ares was not popular with the Greek people because of his quick temper and thirst for conflict. 

• He was often accompanied in battle by his sister Eris (Strife), and his sons Phobos (Panic) and Deimos (Rout). 

• He was associated with Enyalius, a lesser war deity who was almost identical to Ares, and Enyo, a female counterpart. 

• He was a popular subject in Greek art. 

• He became even more popular in Roman times when he took on the form of Mars, the Roman god of war. 

Name 

• The name Ares comes from the Ancient Greek word Ἄρης (Árēs), which literally means "battle".