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Home » Ancient History

Athena Greek Goddess of Wisdom Facts

Published: Jul 15, 2018 · Modified: Nov 9, 2023 by Russell Yost · This post may contain affiliate links ·

Athena, the Mount Olympus Goddess, is the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, handcraft, and warfare. She was believed to have been born from the head of her father, Zeus, and beat Poseidon in a competition to be the patron of the city of Athens by creating the first olive tree. Athena was the patron goddess of heroic endeavor; she was believed to have also aided the heroes Perseus, Heracles, Bellerophon, and Jason. Along with Aphrodite and Hera, Athena was one of the three goddesses whose feud resulted in the beginning of the Trojan War.

Athena Greek Goddess
Jump to:
  • Athena Greek Goddess: Athens
  • Athena Greek Goddess: Arachne
  • Athena Greek Goddess: Patron of Heroes
  • Athene Greek Goddess: Online Resources

Athena Greek Goddess: Athens

Athena competed with Poseidon for the patronage of Athens. They agreed that each would give the Athenians one gift and that Cecrops, the king of Athens, would determine which gift was better. Poseidon struck the ground with his trident, and a saltwater spring sprang up; this gave the Athenians access to trade and water. Athens, at its height, was a significant sea power, defeating the Persian fleet at the Battle of Salamis, but the water was salty and undrinkable. Athena offered the first domesticated olive tree. Cecrops accepted this gift and declared Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. The olive tree brought wood, oil, and food and became a symbol of Athenian economic prosperity.

Athena Greek Goddess: Arachne

Most of Athena's interactions with mortals were positive. However, there was one interaction that showed a more jealous and aggressive Athena, and that was her dealings with Arachne. Archne was a great weaver and even bragged that she was a better seamstress than Athena. Athena challenged her to a duel or weaving.

During the competition, Athena weaved a beautiful tapestry that showed the gruesome fate of mortals that challenged the gods, while Arachne weaved a beautiful tapestry that showed the unjust acts of the gods towards mortals. Athena became offended and enraged towards Arachne, tore her tapestry, and turned her into a spider. Arachne is now doomed to weave for eternity.

Athena Greek Goddess: Patron of Heroes

Athena was known for her aid to various Greek heroes. She aided Heracles, Odysseus, Perseus, Bellerophon, Jason, Diomedes, Argus, and Cadmus.

This was due to her association with war and wisdom. Unlike Ares, who was associated with war and its violence.

Athene Greek Goddess: Online Resources

  • Wikipedia - Greek Goddess of War
  • Greek Mythology - The Story of Athena
  • The History Junkie's Guide to the Ancient World
  • The History Junkie's List of Greek Gods and Goddesses
  • The History Junkie's Timeline of Ancient Greece

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