1 Alcmene was a figure in Greek mythology who played a significant role in the origins

of Hercules (Heracles). She was a mortal woman who became the mother of Hercules, and
her story is intertwined with that of Zeus, the king of the gods.
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3 According to myth, Alcmene was the daughter of Electryon, a king of Mycenae. She was
known for her beauty and virtue, and it was said that she was the most beautiful
woman in Greece. Her story begins when Zeus, who had fallen in love with her,
disguised himself as her husband Amphitryon and spent the night with Alcmene.
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5 The next morning, Amphitryon returned home, unaware of what had happened during his
absence. Alcmene gave birth to Hercules, who was said to be the son of Zeus. However,
Hera, Zeus' wife, discovered that he had been unfaithful and became jealous of
Alcmene's beauty and her relationship with Zeus.
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7 Hera's jealousy towards Alcmene led to a series of events that would shape the course
of Hercules' life. She sent two serpents to kill the infant Hercules in his crib, but
he strangled them both before they could harm him. This act of bravery was said to
have been prophesied by the Oracle at Delphi.
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9 As Hercules grew up, he became known for his strength and courage, which were
attributed to his divine parentage. His story is a testament to the power of
mythology in shaping our understanding of human nature and the world around us.
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11 Alcmene's story also serves as a reminder of the complexities of human relationships
and the consequences of desire and jealousy. Her relationship with Zeus was marked by
deception and secrecy, and it ultimately led to the birth of a hero who would go on
to have a profound impact on Greek mythology.
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13 In conclusion, Alcmene is an important figure in Greek mythology, and her story
serves as a backdrop for many of the events that shaped the life of Hercules. Her
relationship with Zeus and the consequences of his infidelity highlight the
complexities of human relationships and the power of myth to shape our understanding
of ourselves and the world around us.