The Story of Hecate
Hecate was a goddess of magic, witchcraft, crossroads and the night. According to Hesiod, she was the only child of the Titans Perses and Asteria. She was usually shown carrying torches, and often in a triple form, facing in three directions at once.
Although she was born of Titans, Hecate was honored by Zeus above many others after the war of the Titans. Hesiod says Zeus let her keep her share of power over the earth, the sea and the sky. She could grant wealth, victory and good fortune to anyone she chose to favor.
When Hades carried off Persephone, Hecate heard the girl's cries from her cave. She met the grieving Demeter with a torch in her hand and joined her search. Together they went to Helios, who had seen everything and told them the truth.
When Persephone became queen of the Underworld, Hecate became her faithful companion and guide. In this role, she was linked with ghosts and the spirits of the dead. People said she roamed the crossroads at night, followed by ghosts and the barking of dogs.
Hecate also fought for the Olympians in the war against the Giants. Using her blazing torches, she killed the giant Clytius. Her loyalty helped secure her honored place among the gods.
Over time, Hecate became the goddess of witches and sorcery. The sorceress Medea was her priestess and called on her at night when she prepared the magic potions that helped Jason win the Golden Fleece. Circe, the enchantress of the Odyssey, was also sometimes linked with her.
The Greeks set up small shrines to Hecate at crossroads and in front of their doors to protect their homes. Each month, at the new moon, families left meals for her at the crossroads, known as Hecate's suppers. Her greatest sanctuary was at Lagina in Asia Minor, where she was worshipped as a mighty protector.
Famous Myths About Hecate
Honored by Zeus
Hecate was a Titan's daughter, yet Zeus honored her above many others after the war of the Titans. Hesiod says he let her keep her share of power over earth, sea, and sky, and she granted good fortune to those who called on her.
The Torchlit Search
When Persephone was carried off, Hecate heard her cries from her cave. She met Demeter with a torch in her hand and joined the search, and afterward she became Persephone's faithful companion in the Underworld.
The War of the Giants
When the Giants rose up against the Olympian gods, Hecate fought on the side of the Olympians. She killed the giant Clytius with her blazing torches.
Patron of Medea
The sorceress Medea was a priestess of Hecate and drew her magical power from the goddess. She called on Hecate at night when she prepared the potions that helped Jason win the Golden Fleece.
Hecate's Family Tree
Partners of Hecate
Children of Hecate
Frequently Asked Questions About Hecate
Who is Hecate in Greek mythology?
Hecate is the goddess of magic, witchcraft, crossroads, the night and ghosts. She is often shown in a triple form, facing in three directions.
Who are Hecate's parents?
According to Hesiod, Hecate is the daughter of the Titans Perses and Asteria, and Zeus honored her above all others.
How did Hecate help Demeter?
When Persephone was taken to the underworld, Hecate helped Demeter search for her by torchlight. Afterward she became Persephone's companion in the underworld.
What are Hecate's symbols?
Hecate is shown carrying twin torches, keys and daggers, often with dogs at her side.
What is Hecate's Roman name?
The Romans called Hecate Trivia, meaning three roads, after the crossroads where she was worshiped.
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