What Is the Personality of Athena?

Krzysztof Dydynski/Lonely Planet Images/Getty Images

The Greek goddess Athena’s personality is often portrayed as intelligent, watchful, reasoned and unemotional. She is the patron goddess of Athens, which was named for her. Athena’s counterpart in Roman mythology is Minerva.

Athena is said to have been born in full armor from the forehead of her father Zeus. One myth explains that this was because Zeus had swallowed her pregnant mother Metis. She had no children or spouse and was known as the virgin goddess. Athena was revered for her wisdom and strength in battle. While not seen as especially compassionate, she had a fondness for Odysseus and Perseus. She often appeared holding a shield and wearing a helmet. She was also often portrayed with her sacred animal, the owl, which represented wisdom.