ATHENA

 Zeus swallows Metis, goddess of wisdom and is born fully armed from Zeus’ head
 Four characteristics of Athena
1. Wisdom  symbol: owl (Athens)
2. Virginity  a virgin goddess like Artemis
3. Battle Prowess  strategy and discipline (vs. Ares’ bloodlust); protector of many heroes (ex:
Perseus, Diomedes, Odysseus)
4. Patron of civilized crafts and skills  weaving, construction of ships and chariots, etc.
 Glaukopis: “grey-eyed”/ “owl-eyed”
 Pallas: “virgin”/ “wielder” (of weapons)
 A goddess of civilization
 Primarily worshipped in cities as guardian deity
 Contrast with Artemis
 Olive tree
 Weaving
 Typically armed and wearing the aegis
 Given to Athena by Zeus
 A kind of breastplate
 Inspires fear
 Snakes
 Gorgons: Snakes for hair; typically 3 sisters; sharps teeth; mouth is open with tongue
sticking out. On armors and shields—suggest fearsomeness and warning to beware/”keep
out”
 Medusa- one of the three Gorgons
 The head of the Gorgon- usually Medusa; on the Aegis of Athena
 Sometimes accompanied by Nike, winged goddess of victory