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The Greeks believed that, as Aphrodite, she rose from the sea
in the foam created by the blood of Uranus after he had been emasculated
by his son, Cronus.
The Romans regarded Venus as a protector of virtue, the graves of young
girls, and she was held in high regard by gardeners.
Julius Caesar claimed to be descended from Venus.
Aphrodite had a more lustful and jealous nature.
In Greek mythology her appearance on Mount Olympus caused desire in
the gods and friction amongst the goddesses.
She was married to Hephaestus (the Roman Vulcan) and was repeatedly
unfaithful, her main lover being Ares (Mars) who fathered Eros (Cupid).
When Eros fell in love with Psyche, Aphrodite persecuted the girl until
Zeus (Jupiter) gave them his protection and they were able to marry.
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