Hercules, in Greek mythology, the hero, a demigod, a hero, the son of Zeus and a mortal woman Alcmene (wife of Amphitryon). In the absence of Amphitryon (who fought against the tribes teleboev) Zeus, taking his face, came to Alkmene; lasted until their wedding night, the sun for three days did not rise above the ground. After the return of her husband gave birth to both sons Alkmena - Ifikla from her husband and Herakles from Zeus. On a day when Hercules had to be born, Zeus vowed in a meeting of the gods, that baby of his descendants, who will be born on this day will reign over Mycenae and neighboring nations.