Learning Intention
To understand the contest between Hercules and the river god Achelous for Deianira's hand in marriage
Success Criteria
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
1
Understand the story
I can explain what happens in the contest between Hercules and Achelous from Ovid's Metamorphoses
2
Analyse characterisation
I am able to identify how Hercules is presented through his words, actions, and fighting style
3
Compare divine and mortal
I can explain the significance of a mortal hero defeating an immortal god
4
Understand metamorphosis
I am able to explain how shapeshifting is used in the story and what it reveals about the characters
Context: Hercules Seeks a Bride
After completing his twelve labours, Hercules is no longer bound to serve King Eurystheus. He is free to marry and settle down. He seeks the hand of Deianira, daughter of King Oeneus of Calydon, but he faces competition from an unexpected rival - Achelous, a powerful river god.
This story comes from Ovid's Metamorphoses, a collection of transformation myths. The river god Achelous himself tells the story to Theseus (another famous Greek hero), explaining why his head is damaged and one of his horns is missing.
Prescribed Source
Work
Metamorphoses
Book & Lines
Book 9, 1-88
Author
Ovid
Why This Story Matters
This myth shows Hercules at a pivotal moment - no longer completing labours for punishment, but fighting for his own desires. It also demonstrates a key theme: even immortal gods can be defeated by mortal heroes with sufficient strength and determination. The shapeshifting contest reveals character through combat.