Greek Mythology? Its one of the popular mythology I had encounter in my whole life. That mythology really amazed me. Not just because of the characters but the flow of the story also, who made me curious about them if they really exist. We also discussed that in our history class during my Junior year so that I have a little background about them. In that 12 Olympian Gods, many of us have their favorite gods or goddesses.
I chose Athena among the Olympian Gods because I like her personality as one of the goddesses. Athena is the daughter of Zeus. She is the patron goddess of the city-state of Athens, the goddess of wisdom, a goddess of arts and crafts (agriculture, navigation, spinning, weaving, and needlework), the favorite daughter of her father Zeus, and, as a war goddess with a focus on strategy more than bloodshed, an active participant in the Trojan War. She gave her namesake city the gift of the olive tree, providing oil, food, and wood.
Athena was the goddess of wisdom and war. She invented math. Her responsibilities were giving wisdom, inspiring, inventions, and protecting Athens. She could change herself into other forms and shapes. Her weapons were a lance, shield, and a fringed cloak. Athena lived on Mount Olympus. Zeus gave birth from his head to Athena. Zeus’s wife, Hera, was not happy. She always worked to prevent war, but once a war had started the goddess Athena fought efficiently for her side. To prevent the Trojan War, Athena descended from Mount Olympus and walked between the two armies, making both sides swear to keep the peace. Unfortunately, a Trojan soldier violated his oath and let loose his arrow, starting the Trojan War.
The Greek goddess Athena is usually portrayed as one of the most strong, fair, and merciful goddesses. Her symbols are an Owl and an Olive Tree. She never married. The goddess Athena is recognized as the protector of cities. Athena remains a symbol of civilization, knowledge, logic and wisdom.
The goddess Athena reminds us that we can successfully use our brains to reach any goal we choose in our life. In reading mythology we should apply what we learned in our daily life. To have some inspiration in doing our daily task. It may motivate us in a good way. That’s all I can say about this goddess Athena, hoping that this article will help others to know who Athena really is.
I would like to thank Ms. Maku Mei Chan for letting me to use her photos. Kudos for her kindness.
Contributed by: Raquel S. Germinal
