Hades is one of the major gods of Greek mythology and is known as the god of the dead and ruler of the Underworld where the shades of the dead and other mythological beasts and beings are kept. He is the oldest son of Cronos and Rhea, and brother of Zeus, Poseidon, Hera, Hestia, and Demeter. He is stern and serious, and the most hated of the gods among mortals.

Hades has absolute dominion over the Underworld, or realm of the dead. When Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades divided up the world after defeating the Titans, Hades obtained "the darkness of night," the abode of the shades. He's associated with death, the afterlife, and the souls of the departed and is sometimes referred to as the king of the shades.

Hades has long beard and long hair. He wears a dark cloak, and carries a two-pronged staff, known as a bident. He is often seen with his three-headed dog, Cerberus, who guards the entrance to the Underworld. Since those who dwell in his kingdom are confined there, Hades is often seen carrying a key.

Hades's Helmet makes its wearer invisible and was given to him as a present by the Cyclopes after they were freed from Tartarus.

Hades kidnapped Persephone from the Surface and carried her, with his golden chariot drawn by four black steeds, to the Underworld. She would only be allowed to return to the Surface if she didn't eat while in the Underworld. Unfamiliar with this Rule of the Fates, she ate a few pomegranate seeds, and was required to spend eternity in the Kingdom of Hades. Zeus was eventually able to strike a deal in which she was allowed to spend several months on the Surface. When forced to return to the Underworld, her mother Demeter causes it to be winter on the Surface. As Hades bride, Persephone became the Queen of the Underworld.

Hades is a brooding and fearsome figure, but is also known for his sense of justice and fairness. He's a somewhat reluctant ruler of the Underworld, as he was forced to take on this role by the drawing of lots among his brothers.