Hephaestus is born as a result of Hera’s spite towards Zeus on account of Athena’s birth form his head. She wants to show him that she can also bear children alone. Yet, she is shocked when she sees Hephaestus, who is the exact opposite of Athena (who is perfect) – he is ugly and deformed. In one version of the myth, Hera throws Hephaestus from Olympus, causing him a permanent disability and causing him live away from Olympus for many years. During this time, he creates a golden throne and sends it to his mother, but when she is seated, she is strapped and trapped. He returns to free her after she promises that he can wed with whichever bride he wishes (Aphrodite). Other than his mother’s rejection, he receives that of his wife’s as well (she is unfaithful). He is the only of the gods who works, creating jewelry, weapons, robots etc. He is the fire god – using copper and metal. He is characterized by his inventiveness, his ongoing creativity and his appreciation of beauty.