Sometimes Herakles is depicted with other gods.  Sometimes Athena is also shown and in some instances she is not.  In some circumstances Herakles is seen depicted on another god’s temple, as is the case where he is featured on the metope at the Temple of Hephaistos.  Hephaistos was known to help Herakles on several occasions, including the time he crafted a shield for Herakles for his battle with Cycnus.

“…it is one of the few exploits in which Athena actively helps Herakles: in the hero’s duel, she seconds Herakles, as Ares does Cycnus”(Padilla, 11).

One of the most notable relationships is that between Herakles and Apollo fighting over the Delphic Tripod.

As Herakles is ushered to Mt. Olympus, many gods are present:  Hermes, Artemis, Athena, Zeus, Hera, Aphrodite, Poseidon, Ares, Apollo, Hestia, and Dionysos in this scene on both sides of a Late Archaic Kylix (drinking cup).

Herakles’ initiation into the Mysteries with Demeter, Persephone, and Artemis present is seen in this Late Classical, Attic Red Figure vase.  Herakles became a part of this cult before descending into the Underworld to fight Cerberus.

Herakles fights Kyknos (Cycnus) with Athena, Hermes, Ares, and Aphrodite present.  Herakles’ shield is provided by Hephaistos.

Apollo and Herakles fighting for the tripod with Athena and an unknown woman, perhaps Artemis

Hermes and Nike pictured standing on either side of Herakles

Hermes carrying the infant Herakles

Herakles with Dionysos

Hermes with Herakles as he fights the Erymanthian Boar

In some instances Zeus interferes with Herakles’ battles in order to help him or save his life.  Zeus and Athena are present and interfere in the Battle of Herakles and Kyknos. (MB)