Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, was notorious among the Romans for his interest and fascination with drinking, alcoholism, and partying. He was infamous for the Bacchanalian festivals, events involving wild parties, held in his honor. However, contrary to popular belief that he was an inconsiderate and careless drunkard, the Romans might have seen him as a more considerate and caring god. While Bacchus was infamous for being an alcoholic and party addict, he at the same time showed empathy and compassion towards those he loved and the Romans as a whole. This is reflected through his journey around the world, his generosity and courage in many myths and his representation in the 21st century. Bacchus' good will and benevolence were germinated from a very young age during his journey around the world. A few years after his birth, he became furious when Hera, wife of Zeus, struck him mad. This gave him a very unpleasant childhood. In anger, he left Mount Olympus and traveled the world. During his journey, he meets Cybele, the "mother of the gods", who cures him of his madness and allows him to continue a more peaceful journey. Throughout his journey, he compassionately taught farming techniques to many villagers. More specifically, during his stay in Asia, he gave courses on the cultivation of grapes and vines. Although Bacchus may not have noticed it immediately, he performed great acts of kindness along his journey, which were the first steps to becoming a benevolent god. His continuity of benevolence is illustrated through several different myths. Bacchus, identical to the Greek god Dionysus, is depicted as compassionate and benevolent in many myths...... middle of paper ...... film Fantasia and synopsis of the upcoming play Bacchus in Rehab clearly shows Bacchus as a god kind and helpful. While many consider Bacchus to be the notorious alcoholic god, it is clear that he can instead be seen as a benevolent and caring god. First, throughout his journey, he compassionately taught commoners the art of growing grapes and cultivating vines. Second, he generously granted King Midas the power to turn anything he touched into gold and kindly helped him remove it when he found Midas in distress. In another myth, he saved his mother from the underworld out of sympathy. Third, Bacchus has been (and will be) represented in film and theater as a sympathetic and caring god who longs to help others. These depictions of Bacchus show that he was not only an arrogant and inconsiderate drunkard, but also a compassionate and caring Samaritan..