During her time of maidenhood Zeus attempted repetitively to court Hera. When his plan failed he resorted to deception. He transformed into a scruffy cuckoo and managed to win the sympathy of Hera. Feeling sorry for the bird, she cuddled it close to her breast in order to give him heat. At this point, Zeus regained his real shape and raped Hera. Europa was a virgin Phoenician princess whose love affair with Zeus was never discovered by Hera; therefore, she was left unmolested by her. Europe was actually named after her. After waking up from a disturbing dream in which she saw two continents, symbolized as women, fighting over her, Europa went for a walk with her fellow maidens. Zeus, arrested by her beauty, approached the group in disguise of a beautiful white bull. The women made haste to stroke the gorgeous creature. The bull lied before Europa and she climbed on his back. The animal then bolted through the crowd and plunged into the sea. He was followed by a procession of gods, including Poseidon. When seeing this, Europa realized that the bull was a god; she begged him to spare her life. Zeus then emerged and calmed her down by professing his love for her. He took her to Crete where they had many famous children, among who were Minos and Rhadmanthus.
Zeus the Arch Lord of Greek Religion: Secular Nature of Greek Deity
