Ares Percy Jackson

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

08-12-2024

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Ares, the Greek god of war, isn't exactly your typical Olympian. While other gods might dabble in conflict, Ares is conflict. He revels in it, thrives on it, and frankly, sometimes seems to actively create it. In Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, he's portrayed as a boisterous, often reckless figure, a stark contrast to the more strategic and calculating gods like Athena.

A God of Brutality, Not Strategy

Unlike Athena, the goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, Ares prefers brute force. He doesn't care for clever plans or subtle manipulations; his approach is straightforward, violent, and often chaotic. This makes him a compelling, if somewhat unsettling, character. His involvement in the series' events is frequently characterized by his impulsive actions and disregard for the potential consequences. He's less concerned with winning a battle than with the thrill of the fight itself.

Ares' Relationships: A Family of Fighters (and a Few Enemies)

Ares' family relationships are as tempestuous as the god himself. His relationship with his children, including his son Phobos (fear) and Deimos (terror), often reflects his own volatile nature. He's not exactly a nurturing parent, showing a preference for his children's ability to sow chaos over any emotional connection.

His complicated relationship with the other Olympians, especially his sister Athena, adds another layer of complexity to his character. Their rivalry, born from fundamentally opposing approaches to conflict, is a recurring theme throughout the series and serves as a fascinating study in contrasting personalities.

More Than Just Brute Strength: Ares' Influence in the Percy Jackson World

While his methods are questionable, Ares' influence is undeniable. His presence shapes many of the conflicts in the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, pushing the narrative forward with his unpredictable actions and powerful interventions. His involvement isn't always malicious; at times, his chaotic energy contributes to the overall narrative's dynamism and suspense. Even his seemingly villainous acts can, unexpectedly, lead to positive outcomes.

A Complex and Compelling Character

Ultimately, Ares is far more than just a stereotypical "evil" god. Riordan's portrayal of him is nuanced and compelling. He's a character of contradictions – a powerful warrior who craves battle but ultimately displays a surprisingly layered, albeit morally ambiguous, perspective on war and conflict. He challenges the reader to consider the various aspects of war beyond its simple good-versus-evil narrative, prompting us to delve deeper into the complexities of human nature. He's a reminder that even the most seemingly straightforward antagonists can possess unexpected depths and motivations.