This is one of my favorite of Hercules' exploits - Antaeus had this special power that, so long as he was in contact with the earth (who was his own mother, Gaia), he was enormously strong. Hercules finally figured that out and lifted Antaeus off the ground; thus deprived of his strength, Antaeus was no match for the mighty Hercules. This dramatic painting is by the Renaissance artist Antonio del Pollaiolo
You can also find more myths and legends for the week of September 30 - October 6 here. For more information and links to the actual javascript code, see the Myths & Legends Widget Reference Page.
