What Were Athena’s Powers?
Athena’s powers include: authority over wisdom and crafts, which includes agriculture, spinning, needlework, weaving and navigation. Athena is also considered as both a goddess of war, and the patron goddess of Athens. In her aspect as a goddess of war, Athena’s authority falls more on strategy rather than open conflict.
In Greek mythology, Athena is considered to be the favorite daughter of Zeus. She defeated Poseidon in the battle for patron deity of the city of Athens. Athena won the city’s vote as patron goddess in large part because of her gift, the olive tree.
According to Greek mythology, Athena was born from Zeus’ head, and did not have a mother. In her creation, Athena was said to have emerged fully-armed. Some of her attributes include the Aegis, pomegranate, owl, helmet and spear. She is commonly referred to as “the grey-eyed goddess.”
Athena also appeared many times in various Greek tales. She was recorded to have been a witness during Jason’s attempt to rescue the Golden Fleece. Athena also supported Perseus in his quest to obtain the head of Medusa. During the Trojan War, Athena actively supported the Greeks and helped guide Telemachus to regain control of Ithaca during Odysseus’ absence.
