Aries: Origins in Mythology

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From http://www.findyourfate.com/astrology/Aries.htm)<BR>
Throughout the ancient Mediterranean region, the Ram figure was associated with the constellation Aries or Arietis. Ares was the Greek god of war and pestilence. He was the son of Zeus and Hera, consort of Aphrodite. The Romans associated Ares with Mars, the enemy of the tyrants and defender of the just. Originally an agricultural god associated with the affairs of spring, Mars assimilated many of the characteristics of Ares since battles were often coordinated at this same time of year.
The son of Nepele, Phrixus, was falsely accused of ravishing Biadice. For this, he was condemned to death, but was rescued by a golden ram, sent by the god Mercury. Phrixus escaped safely, and at the ram's request, sacrificed the animal to the god Zeus to honor the initial offering. For his courage, the ram's likeness was set into the heavens.