Athena: Greek Goddess of Wisdom

Athena is one of the most important gods in Greek culture. Goddess of wisdom, law, justice, and strategy. Scholars and soldiers prayed to Athena for blessings in their search for wisdom or victory. She is recognizable in ancient sculptures and pictures by her signature traits; holding a spear, having an owl perched upon or somewhere near her, and lastly, the symbol of an olive tree.

Athena’s birth is an interesting story. Zeus, worried about a prophecy that a son of Métis would overthrow him and his rule, swallowed Métis, then pregnant with Athena, whole. He thought he had dealt with the problem, but later, he developed a terrible headache. The pain became so unbearable, he had one of his sons crack open his head to identify the problem. From this crack, Athena emerged, fully grown and dressed ready for battle. 

Athena was a very celebrated god in ancient Greece, with the capital city of Athens being named in her honor, and the famous Parthenon erected as her temple. Despite the attempted murder of Athena, and successful murder of her Mother, Athena became one of Zeus’ favorite children, and perhaps the second most famous Greek God after him.