Greek Myths XS: How Ares, Eris and Enyo still rule the world

“If we are victorious in one more battle, we will be ruined.” This statement by general Pyrrhus lead to the concept of “a pyrrhic victory”, too narrow to be worth it. In these modern times, we shouldn’t be talking about war or victory, but here we are. The old Roman saying “If you want peace, prepare for war”, is on everyone’s lips. As is the Spartan one: “If a Spartan fights alone, he’s equal to any man, but united, they’re invincible.” Now, the Greeks and Romans had the excuse of almighty gods inciting battles among humans for their entertainment. War god Ares (or Mars) specialised in enflaming the mood, with the help of his female counterpart Enyo (Bellona). Ares’ daughter Harmonia (Concordia), goddess of unity, did what she could to build trust and strengthen alliances, but then Eris, goddess of discord, would step in to undermine her efforts. In the end, Harmonia would be banned to the private sphere, and in state’s affairs, the trio Ares, Enyo and Eris would always get their way. Millennia later, shockingly, they still do.

Eris, Attic cup, Antikensammlung Berlin, Germany

Bellona, Bellone House, Jean Cousin, Brussels, Belgium