Classical Mythology

524 THE GREEK SAGAS: GREEK LOCAL LEGENDS

Hercules and the Lernaean Hydra. By Gustave Moreau (1826-1898); oil on canvas, 1869-1876,
70V2 x 6OV4 in. Moreau, who painted several of Hercules' Labors, devoted enormous effort to
this painting. Hercules is young and of normal human size and anatomy. He stands in the at-
titude (legs reversed) of the Apollo Belvedere (p. 229), with his attributes of lionskin, bow (also
Apollo's weapon), and club. The seven-headed Hydra towers over the hero, and in front of
it lie the remains of its victims. The rocky cliffs heighten the drama, a suitable setting for the
fearless hero. The conquest of the Hydra had long been a parable for the triumph of good gov-
ernment over disorder, but Moreau focuses on the moral stature of the hero rather than on po-
litical allegory. (Chicago, Art Institute.)