He was Zeus' and Alcmena's son. From the cradle he gave proof of his strength. In fact, he strangled two snakes that had been sent by Hera. When he served Eurystheus, he did the famous twelve labours. He dressed like a woman when he served Queen Onfale and he spun with her maids for three years. After other exploits he married Deianira. She made him wear poisoned clothing by mistake. When he was at the point of death, Heracles threw himself on the fire, but Zeus made him immortal. Heracles is described as a very muscular man who wears the skin of the first lion he killed and carries a club.
