Mythology Surrounding Hestia
There is not a large amount of myths with Hestia’s presence involved. Largely, she preferred to stay out of the many messes that the other gods got into, and she also preferred not to marry. Though Hestia was the youngest, eventually she grew very beautiful. Her brother, Poseidon, and Apollo of the second generation, became interested and began to pursue her for marriage. However, Hestia rejected the teachings of Aphrodite; love, romance, etc. She instead touched her hand to the god Zeus’ forehead, and swore an oath never to marry, and to remain a virgin. Since Zeus was the supreme god of Olympus, an oath to him was also as firm as his authority. Zeus was actually pleased with her decision because it prevented the possibility of a war between Apollo and Poseidon. Zeus supported her decision to be independent and remain single, so he also decreed that the first and last sacrifice in any ritual sacrifice that was dedicated to all the gods, should be for Hestia. Zeus gave Hestia dominion of the hearth of Mount Olympus; thusly she became the goddess of the home and hearth. From the Homeric Hymns:
“…be favorable and help us you [Hermes] and Hestia, worshipful and dear. Come and dwell in this glorious house of friendship together, for you two, well knowing the noble actions of men, aid their wisdom and strength.”
One of Hestia’s dearest friends and neighbors was the god Hermes; although the two were very different in character, they never married, because Hestia preferred chastity but they remained close. One of the very few myths in which Hestia is featured, she was nearly raped by the lustful god Priapus. As Hestia was sleeping in her bed, Priapus approached her with his intent to molest her. At this time, a donkey nearby, who had long since then been considered to be a symbol of lust, began to scream loudly, and repeatedly. When Hestia woke up, she also began to scream loudly, which alerted all the other gods. All the commotion scared Priapus half to death, and sent him running off trying to escape the very possible wrath of Zeus.