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Athena
Lauren Spencer P.6
Mrs. Zimmerman
March 26, 2015
Athena was a very important goddess in Greek mythology. Athena was the Greek
goddess of reason, intelligent activity, arts, and literature. (greekmythology) She has been called
many different names, including Athena, Athene, Pallas Athena, and Pallas Athene. Some of her
many siblings are Artemis, Aphrodite, Ares, Apollo, Hermes, and Porus.
(greekgodsandgoddesses)
“She was the daughter of Zeus; her birth is unique in that she did not have a mother.
Instead, she sprang full grown and clad in armor from Zeus' forehead.” (greekmythology) A
common story is that Zeus swallowed Metis, goddess of crafty thought and wisdom, because he
feared she would give birth to a child more powerful than himself- but the child was already
born. (greekgodsandgoddesses) Athena was Zeus’s favorite child and was allowed to use his
weapons including his thunderbolt. (greekmythology)
“Athena was the goddess who taught mankind various skills such as weaving and sewing
to the women and agriculture and metallurgy to men. She was always giving precious advice and
stood by on any danger. Athena protected the heroes as they went out to war and saved them on
their coming back.” (greek-gods) Athena also helped Hercules when he was required to drive
away Stymphalian birds. Athena got the birds moving and Hercules shot them. “According to
some sources, Athena was praised for her compassion and generosity.” (greekgodsandgoddesses)
Athena helped many people.
Many gods had symbols, including Athena. Some of Athena’s symbols were owls, olive
trees, snakes, armor, helmets, and spears. Athena’s sacred animal, the owl, was seen on Athenian
coins. (greekgodsandgoddesses) “According to legend, Athena was so impressed by the great
wise eyes and solemn appearance of the Owl that, having banished the mischievous crow, she
honored the night bird by making it her favorite among animals.” (ancientcreations)
Athena was a very interesting and important god in Greek mythology. There are many
stories that show how wise, kind, and generous she was. Athena was easy to get along with and
had many friends.