In Greek Mythology, What was the Hydra?
The Hydra or Lernaean Hydra was a many headed monster in Greek mythology which terrorized visitors near the lake of Lerna in Greece. Killing the Hydra proved to be quite a challenge, as two heads would grow back whenever one was cut off. Hercules seized upon the idea of cauterizing the neck before the new heads had a chance to grow, ultimately defeating the monster as part of a series of tasks he completed which are collectively known as the 12 labors of Hercules. The Hydra is such an enduring mythological figure that the term “hydra” is sometimes used to describe a challenge which seems to keep getting bigger and harder to handle, no matter how hard someone tries to metaphorically behead it.
