# Hercules — Dialogues character guide

> Hercules in Dialogues by Seneca.

**Role:** minor

**First appearance:** 0001-i

## Who they are

Mythological hero used as a symbol of strength and endurance.

## Relationships

### [Alexander the Great](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/characters/alexander_the_great)

_psychological_

Alexander the Great is obsessed with emulating Hercules, viewing him as a divine role model.

## In the story

### [The Visage of Anger](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/iv)

Invoked in an exclamation to emphasize the shocking appearance of an angry man.

### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/xxviii)

Invoked in the phrase 'by Hercules' to emphasize the ideal of a great and just man.

### [On the Shortness of Life](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/xx)

Invoked in an exclamation ('by Hercules') to emphasize the absurdity of funereal displays for those who lived briefly.

### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/xvi)

Mentioned as one who was burned alive but gained immortality through his death.

### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/ii)

Cited as a mythical wise man from earlier ages, contrasted with Cato's real-world struggles.

### [The Incompatibility of Virtue and Pleasure](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/xv)

Invoked in an exclamation ('by Hercules') to emphasize the folly of being dragged rather than following.

### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/xiii)

Presented as a liberator and peacemaker, in contrast to Alexander.

### [On the True Nature of Wealth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/x)

Invoked in an oath to emphasize the earth's concealment of gold and silver as harmful.

### [Chapter XV: The Value of Intent in Repaying Kindness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/chapters/xv)

Invoked in the exclamation 'No, by Hercules!' to emphasize the valor of effort over outcome.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/characters/hercules
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/dialogues_2_se/characters