Hercules, meaning "one renowned through Hera, the mother of the Gods and the wife of Zeus" (Boardman, 156), is not just one of the oldest heroes in all of Greek mythology but is also the most revered and famous. Historically speaking, the tales of Hercules are based on the traditions and similar heroes from other cultures which makes his achievements almost extensive in Western civilization, meaning that every culture outside of Greece shares some familiarity with his life and accomplishments. .

             Also, through the myths associated with Hercules, the world-wide view is one of recognition based on certain emotional actions and reactions. Although the tales of Hercules were written in the very distant past, perhaps as long as 2000 B.C.E, his feats and accomplishments are still relevant in today's world, mostly due to the decisions that Hercules was forced to make, decisions that are still made by a vast number of people all over the world. In essence , the application of myth in the tales of Hercules are "uniquely their own yet they are also universal and timeless, a reflection on how the ancient Greeks thought and behaved which, not surprisingly, gave rise to modern civilization in the form of art, literature and government" (Morford, 76).

             According to one of the "authors" of the story of Hercules, the Sophist Prodicus, a certain event in the life of the great Greek hero brought forth the fable known as the "Choice of Hercules." In this fable, Hercules was deep in thought as to exactly which path he should take in his life when during these meditations, two women appeared before him. One was called Pleasure, and the other Virtue. The first woman promised him a life filled with much enjoyment, a life which we now refer to as a hedonistic lifestyle in .

             which a person throws away all care and concern for others to live as he pleases. The other woman promised him a life of hard work but filled with exceptional glory.