Pluto was born when his father Cronus castrated Uranus (Sky) so that he could take over as king of the gods. As such, he is sometimes called Cronus Junior or Plouton (the Rich One). When Zeus obtained his revenge on his father by casting him into Tartarus (Hell), Poseidon took over as ruler of Hades’ domain until Zeus returned from Asia Minor to assert his authority over all Olympians once again (see The Titanomachy).
Pluto was known as Hades in ancient Greek literature before the 16th century BC. The etymology of his name is uncertain; Pluto may mean “wealthy” or “rich.” He is the god of the underworld in Greek mythology.
Pluto was often depicted as a bearded, older man with a dark complexion. He was associated with death, the afterlife, and the dark side of human nature. His attributes were a helmet or winged cap and a scepter.
Pluto was believed to be a just and fair ruler, but also a vengeful god who could cause natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods if he was offended by mortals or not properly respected by them.
