It is known by all that Zeus is a prolific womanizer. His adoration of the fairer sex resulted in many illegitimate children, as well as the wrath of his wife, Hera. For many eons, Hera watched as Zeus sired demigod offspring. Her contempt at his unfaithfulness grew, but as the unfaithful are wont to do, he ignored the needs of his wife and carried on adulterating. In jealousy and exasperation, Hera resigned herself to taking her anger out on the bastard children of the god.
Out of the many children of Zeus, Hera harbored the most intense hatred for the hero Heracles.
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Alceme was said to be the tallest and most beautiful woman in all of Greece. Her long hair and deep, dark eyes were compared to those of Aphrodite's. Her wisdom was akin to that of the gods, and it's said that no mortal man could outwit her. As such, she was difficult to impress, and any man lucky enough win her over would be the most honored husband in all of Greece.
When Alceme was introduced to Amphitryon, she fell in love, and the couple were set to wed. However, Amphitryon was sent away for war, leaving before the wedding could take place.
Alceme sat in wait for her beloved Amphitryon. She couldn't bear the thought of any harm coming to him. For many months she pined for her love, and prayed to the gods that she could see him for just one night.
At hearing this prayer, Zeus perked up. Any chance to have such a beautiful woman excited him. He changed his form into that of Amphitryon's, and convinced Alceme that he returned for the night.
One night turned into three, and Alceme had fallen pregnant.
When the real Amphitryon finally returned, he was confused when Alceme recounted the events. The couple put two-and-two together, and realized the stranger had been Zeus.
At this point, Hera had learned of her husband's affair. In anger, Hera stalled the birth of Alceme's son so another boy would take the throne. Alceme realized what had happened during her labor, and she became afraid of Hera's wrath. She birthed a boy, and named him Heracles in honor of the goddess, Hera.
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Many years passed, and Heracles grew into a strong and well respected man. He married the daughter of the king of Thebes, Megara. Together they had three sons: Therimachus, Creontiades, and Deicoon. The family lived happily for many years, much to the chagrin of Hera.
Indeed, Hera was very bitter about their happiness. Hera began to scheme again, and cast a spell that inflicted madness upon the unsuspecting Heracles. This madness caused Heracles to lose control, and in his rage, he slayed his wife and children.