In Greek mythology, Ares was known as the god of war.
Ares was the son of Zeus and Hera and represented the violent, brutal, and chaotic aspects of warfare. His myths often contrast him with Athena, who embodied strategic planning, disciplined battle, and civic defense. This distinction explains why Ares was not simply the only Greek deity connected with war.
Ares had relatively few major cult centers in Greece compared with some other Olympians, although he was honored in places including Sparta. His companions in myth included Enyo, a goddess associated with war, and his sons Phobos and Deimos, personifications of fear and terror.
The Romans identified Ares with Mars, but the two gods developed different reputations. Mars became one of Rome’s most important and respected deities, while Ares is frequently portrayed in Greek literature as impulsive and destructive. The planet Mars takes its name from the Roman god, not directly from the Greek one.