Source edition
Hesiod, The Homeric Hymns and Homerica. Evelyn-White, Hugh G., editor. London: William Heinmann; New York: The Macmillan Co., 1914.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This epic poem centers on the fierce combat between the Greek hero Heracles and Cycnus, the son of the war god Ares. The story begins with the lineage and miraculous birth of Heracles to Alcmene, leading to his encounter with Cycnus in the sacred precinct of Apollo. As Heracles prepares for battle alongside his charioteer Iolaus, the narrative shifts to a detailed description (ekphrasis) of his magnificent shield forged by Hephaestus. Carved upon the shield are terrifying scenes of battling gods and monsters, the grim goddesses of death, and in contrast, the peaceful daily life of mortals engaged in weddings, agriculture, and festivals. Following this extensive description, the poem resumes with a rapid, intense clash where Heracles, empowered by Athena, slays Cycnus and wounds Ares himself. The work concludes with the divine retribution of Apollo, who commands a river to wash away the grave of the plunderer Cycnus.