Ares: God of War, Rival of Percy Jackson, and More Than Just a Bully

Introduction

The air crackled with energy, a storm brewing not just in the heavens but in the soul of a young demigod. “You dare accuse me?” Ares sneered, his eyes burning with a fury that could ignite a battlefield. This image, etched in the minds of *Percy Jackson* fans, is just a glimpse into the complex character of Ares, the God of War. Rick Riordan’s *Percy Jackson* series has captivated readers for years, blending mythology with modern storytelling to create a world filled with adventure, humor, and relatable characters. While figures like Percy, Annabeth, and Grover often take center stage, Ares’ presence looms large, serving as both a formidable antagonist and a surprisingly intricate figure. This article delves into the depths of Ares’ character in *Percy Jackson*, arguing that he is far more than a simple villain; he is a flawed god with understandable motivations and a significant impact on Percy’s journey.

Ares: God of War, in Mythology and Modern Times

Ares, the God of War, is a figure steeped in ancient lore. In traditional Greek mythology, he is often portrayed as a violent, impulsive, and bloodthirsty deity, embodying the brutal and chaotic aspects of warfare. While his siblings like Athena, the goddess of strategic warfare, are revered for their wisdom and tactical prowess, Ares is often seen as a brute, driven by rage and a thirst for battle.

Riordan’s portrayal of Ares in *Percy Jackson* draws from these classical roots, but also adds a layer of complexity that makes him a more compelling character. In the books, Ares embodies the aggressive, impulsive spirit of war, but he is also depicted with a sense of style, swagger, and even a touch of rebellious cool that resonates with a younger audience. He is the god of motorcycles, leather jackets, and heavy metal, a modern update to his ancient persona.

Ares possesses immense strength, supernatural speed, and a natural affinity for weapons. He can manipulate any weapon with ease, turning the tide of battle with a single strike. His presence alone can inspire fear and aggression in others, making him a formidable opponent on the battlefield. Yet, Ares also possesses vulnerabilities. He is often depicted as being easily manipulated, particularly by flattery and a desire for recognition. His impulsive nature can lead him to make rash decisions, and his arrogance often blinds him to the consequences of his actions. His weaknesses are just as prominent as his strengths.

In both the books and the film adaptations, Ares is often depicted as a towering figure with a menacing presence. The book version often describes him with piercing eyes and a cruel smirk, while in the movies, his appearance is typically characterized by a rugged, intimidating demeanor. While the adaptations capture the essence of his intimidating nature, they sometimes oversimplify his character, reducing him to a one-dimensional villain. The books, on the other hand, delve deeper into his motivations and flaws, offering a more nuanced portrayal of the God of War.

Percy Jackson and the God of War: A Clash of Titans

The initial confrontation between Ares and Percy Jackson is the catalyst that sets the entire series in motion. The theft of Zeus’s lightning bolt, the most powerful weapon in the universe, throws Olympus into chaos and threatens to ignite a war between the gods. Percy, accused of the theft, is thrust into a dangerous quest to clear his name and retrieve the stolen weapon. As Percy journeys across the country, he discovers a conspiracy that leads him directly to Ares.

Ares, manipulating events from behind the scenes, orchestrates the theft of the lightning bolt and frames Percy, hoping to instigate a war that would satisfy his bloodlust. He uses Luke Castellan, a troubled demigod with his own grievances against the gods, as a pawn in his scheme, exploiting his resentment to further his own agenda. The manipulation of Luke showcases the insidious nature of Ares. It shows how he exploits weaknesses and fosters chaos to achieve his goals.

The climax of *The Lightning Thief* sees Percy confronting Ares on a beach in Los Angeles. What follows is a heart-stopping battle between the young demigod and the seasoned God of War. Despite being significantly outmatched in terms of power and experience, Percy manages to defeat Ares, wielding Riptide with newfound skill and courage. The duel is a testament to Percy’s growing abilities and his unwavering determination to protect his friends and prevent a war among the gods.

This victory is pivotal for Percy, proving his strength and marking his transition from a naive teenager to a hero of legend. It also exposes Ares as a flawed and vulnerable god, one who can be outwitted and defeated by a mortal. Throughout the series, Percy and Ares cross paths again, creating a tense and uneasy dynamic. These encounters highlight the ongoing conflict between the forces of good and evil, and reinforce the importance of courage, loyalty, and standing up against injustice.

The Mind of a God: Unveiling Ares’s Motivations

Ares’s motivations are not as simple as pure malice. He is driven by a complex mix of jealousy, insecurity, and a desire for recognition that shapes his actions and influences his interactions with others. One of the key factors driving Ares is his deep-seated jealousy of other gods and demigods, particularly those who are celebrated for their intelligence and strategic prowess. Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, is a constant source of frustration for Ares. He views her strategic thinking and tactical brilliance as a threat to his own perceived dominance in the realm of war. This jealousy fuels his desire to prove himself as the ultimate force of destruction, leading him to engage in reckless and destructive acts.

Insecurity also plays a significant role in Ares’s behavior. Despite being the God of War, he often feels overlooked and undervalued by the other gods. He craves respect and acknowledgment for his role in maintaining order and protecting Olympus, but his impulsive and violent nature often undermines his efforts. This insecurity manifests in his constant need to assert his dominance and prove his strength, often leading him to bully and intimidate those around him.

Ultimately, Ares seeks recognition for his contributions. He desires to be seen as more than just a brute force, but as a vital and respected member of the Olympian pantheon. This desire for recognition drives him to seek out opportunities to demonstrate his power and influence, often leading him to manipulate events and instigate conflicts that ultimately backfire. Despite his flaws, there are moments where Ares displays a strange sense of camaraderie or mentorship toward Percy, hinting at the potential for a more nuanced relationship. This “cool uncle” figure can be confusing. At times he seems to be testing Percy, pushing him to his limits to see what he is truly capable of. These moments suggest that Ares recognizes Percy’s potential and sees him as a worthy opponent, someone who can challenge him and perhaps even earn his respect.

Ares’s Legacy: A Catalyst for Heroism

Ares’s actions are the catalyst for Percy’s journey. By framing Percy for the theft of the lightning bolt, Ares unwittingly sets him on the path to becoming a hero. The challenges Percy faces, the battles he fights, and the sacrifices he makes are all directly influenced by Ares’s initial act of aggression. Through his confrontations with Ares, Percy learns valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and the importance of standing up for what is right. He discovers his own strength and potential, transforming from an ordinary teenager into a powerful demigod capable of facing even the most formidable opponents.

Ares represents broader themes of war, violence, and power. His character serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of unchecked aggression and the destructive consequences of seeking power for its own sake. Through his portrayal of Ares, Riordan explores the complexities of human nature, examining the darker aspects of our personalities and the choices we make in the face of conflict.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ares in *Percy Jackson* is not a simple villain, but a complex and multifaceted character. He is a god driven by jealousy, insecurity, and a desire for recognition, whose actions ultimately shape Percy’s journey and contribute to the series’ overall themes. From his initial role in framing Percy for the theft of the lightning bolt to his recurring confrontations with the young demigod, Ares’s presence looms large, serving as both a formidable antagonist and a catalyst for heroism.

Was Ares ultimately redeemable? Could he have used his powers for good instead of evil? His story leaves fans pondering the nature of power and choice long after the books are closed.