Cancer

According to an ancient Greek legend, the figure of a gigantic crab
was placed in the nighttime sky by the goddess Hera to form the constellation Cancer.
Hera swore to kill Heracles, the most famous Greek hero. Hera attempted to kill Heracles
in many different ways, but each time his incredible physical strength allowed him to
survive. The Romans called him Hercules. During the battle between Heracles and Hydra,
the goddess Hera sent a giant crab to aid the serpent. But Heracles, being so strong,
killed the crab by smashing its shell with his foot. As a reward for its service, Hera
placed the crab's image in the night sky.

Home ~ © 2009 Leann Brinkman ~ Pierce College