Zeus is the chief Olympian in Greek myth and cult, associated with sky, thunder, justice, kingship, oaths, and hospitality. His authority follows a violent divine succession, and the stories about him combine protection of social order with deception, sexual coercion, and family conflict.
From Cronus to Olympus
Cronus swallows his children to prevent a predicted overthrow. Rhea saves Zeus, who later forces Cronus to release his siblings and leads the Olympians against the Titans. Different sources add different fosterers, birthplaces, and details to the war.
Law, guests, and weather
Cult titles connect Zeus with rain, the household, boundaries, assemblies, strangers, and sworn promises. Myths show him punishing violations of hospitality and oath, though he does not always behave according to the standards he enforces. The thunderbolt marks his sky power.
Many local forms
Greek communities worshipped Zeus under numerous epithets, and major sanctuaries at Olympia and Dodona had distinct practices. Roman Jupiter was identified with Zeus but retained Roman civic roles and traditions. Modern summaries should not erase the difference between literary character, local cult, and later interpretation.