KidZone Geography: Greek Mythology
About Poseidon, Greek god of the Seas
Introduction to Poseidon
Poseidon, one of the twelve Olympian deities in ancient Greek mythology, is best known as the god of the sea. He also holds dominion over earthquakes and horses. Known for his volatile temperament, Poseidon is a powerful and significant figure in Greek mythology. Often depicted with his trident, Poseidon rules the ocean waves and is a central character in many myths and legends.
Quick Facts About Poseidon
What is Poseidon the Greek god of?
Poseidon is the Greek god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses. As one of the twelve Olympian deities, he holds significant power and influence over the natural elements, particularly the oceans and all bodies of water. He is also known as the "Earth-shaker" due to his ability to cause earthquakes.
What are Poseidon's sacred animals?
Poseidon's sacred animals include the dolphin and the horse. The dolphin symbolizes his dominion over the sea and is often depicted alongside him. The horse is also sacred to Poseidon, reflecting his creation of the first horse and his association with equestrian activities.
What are Poseidon's symbols?
Poseidon's primary symbols are the trident, the dolphin, and the horse. The trident, a three-pronged spear, represents his power over the sea and his ability to control its movements. The dolphin symbolizes his benevolent side as the protector of seafarers, and the horse signifies his creation and mastery over both land and sea creatures.
Origins and Birth
The Titanomachy
Poseidon was the son of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, making him a sibling to other major gods like Zeus and Hades. Similar to his brothers, Poseidon was swallowed at birth by his father Cronus, who feared a prophecy that one of his children would overthrow him. He was later saved by Zeus, who forced Cronus to regurgitate his siblings, leading to the subsequent war known as the Titanomachy. The Olympian gods, led by Zeus, eventually defeated the Titans and divided the world among themselves, with Poseidon gaining control over the sea.
Poseidon's Rise to Power
Following the victory over the Titans, the three brothers—Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades—drew lots to divide their rule over the cosmos. Zeus took the sky, Hades the underworld, and Poseidon the sea. As the god of the sea, Poseidon commanded the oceans and everything within them, becoming a critical figure in maritime activities and naval warfare.
Poseidon's Role in Greek Mythology
God of the Sea
Poseidon's primary domain is the sea, where he reigns supreme. He is often depicted with his powerful trident, which he uses to stir the waters and create tempests or calm them at will. Sailors and fishermen prayed to Poseidon for safe voyages and bountiful catches. His influence extended to all aquatic life and phenomena, from rivers and springs to oceanic storms and earthquakes, reflecting his broad and formidable powers.
Earthquakes and Horses
In addition to his maritime dominion, Poseidon is also known as the "Earth-shaker" due to his ability to cause earthquakes. This aspect of his power underscores his connection to the primal and unpredictable forces of nature. Furthermore, Poseidon is credited with the creation of horses, symbolizing speed, strength, and raw power. Horses were sacred to him, and he is often depicted riding a chariot drawn by magnificent, immortal horses.
Iconography and Symbols
The Trident
The trident is Poseidon's most recognizable symbol, representing his authority over the sea and his ability to control its movements. Crafted by the Cyclopes during the Titanomachy, the trident is a three-pronged spear that Poseidon wields to produce thunderstorms, earthquakes, and tidal waves.
The Dolphin
Dolphins are closely associated with Poseidon and frequently appear in his iconography. As intelligent and agile creatures of the sea, dolphins symbolize Poseidon's domain and his benevolent side as the protector of seafarers.
The Horse
Horses are another significant symbol of Poseidon. According to myth, Poseidon created the first horse and gifted it to humanity. This association highlights his power over both the sea and the land, emphasizing his role as a god of natural forces.
Major Myths Involving Poseidon
The Contest with Athena
One of the most famous myths involving Poseidon is his contest with Athena over the patronage of Athens. Both gods desired to be the protector of the newly founded city. Poseidon struck the ground with his trident, creating a saltwater spring, symbolizing naval power. Athena, however, offered the olive tree, representing peace and prosperity. The citizens chose Athena's gift, and she became the patron goddess of Athens, though Poseidon was still honored in the city.
The Creation of Horses
Poseidon's creation of horses is a significant myth that illustrates his power and ingenuity. According to legend, Poseidon desired Demeter and, to impress her, created the first horse. He sculpted the magnificent creature from the waves, demonstrating his mastery over both land and sea. This myth also ties into Poseidon's role as the god of earthquakes, as horses were believed to be born from the earth's tremors.
The Wrath of Poseidon
Poseidon was known for his fierce temper and vengeful nature. One notable example is the story of Odysseus. After the hero blinded Poseidon's son, the Cyclops Polyphemus, Poseidon cursed Odysseus to wander the seas for years, encountering numerous perils before finally returning home to Ithaca. This myth highlights Poseidon's capacity for both benevolence and wrath, depending on how he was treated.
Poseidon's Relationships and Offspring
Marriages and Consorts
Poseidon had numerous relationships with goddesses, nymphs, and mortal women, resulting in many offspring. His primary consort was Amphitrite, a sea goddess and one of the Nereids. Although she initially resisted his advances, Poseidon eventually won her over, and she became his queen. Together, they had several children, including Triton, a merman who served as Poseidon's herald.
Poseidon's other notable consorts include:
- Demeter: With whom he fathered Despoina and Arion, a divine horse.
- Medusa: Before her transformation into a Gorgon, she bore Poseidon the winged horse Pegasus and Chrysaor.
Divine and Mortal Offspring
Poseidon's numerous offspring played significant roles in various myths and legends. Some of his notable children include:
- Triton: A merman and Poseidon's herald, often depicted blowing a conch shell to calm or raise the waves.
- Theseus: A hero and king of Athens, credited with slaying the Minotaur and uniting Attica.
- Polyphemus: A Cyclops who encountered Odysseus during his voyage home from Troy.
Worship and Cult of Poseidon
Temples and Sanctuaries
Poseidon was worshipped extensively throughout the Greek world, particularly in coastal regions and islands. Some of the most significant temples dedicated to him include:
- The Temple of Poseidon at Sounion: Located on a promontory overlooking the Aegean Sea, this temple was a major site of worship and a landmark for sailors.
- The Isthmian Sanctuary: Near Corinth, this site hosted the Isthmian Games, similar to the Olympics, in Poseidon's honor.
Festivals and Rituals
Several festivals celebrated Poseidon's power and influence, with the most notable being the Isthmian Games. Held every two years near Corinth, these games included athletic competitions, horse races, and naval events. Sacrifices and offerings were made to Poseidon to ensure safe travels and favorable conditions at sea.
Another important festival was the Poseidonia, held in various coastal towns and cities. This festival featured processions, sacrifices, and feasting in honor of the sea god.
Poseidon in Art and Literature
Classical Depictions
Poseidon has been a popular subject in art and literature for centuries. In classical art, he is often depicted as a robust, bearded man wielding a trident and riding a chariot pulled by hippocamps (mythical sea horses). These representations emphasize his authority and power over the sea and natural forces.
Renaissance and Beyond
During the Renaissance, artists like Peter Paul Rubens and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo drew inspiration from classical depictions of Poseidon, incorporating him into their works. Rubens' paintings often portrayed Poseidon in dramatic, dynamic scenes, reflecting the god's tempestuous nature.
Modern Interpretations
In modern times, Poseidon continues to be a prominent figure in literature, film, and popular culture. He appears in various forms, from comic books and movies to television series and video games. These contemporary portrayals often explore different aspects of his character, from his might and wisdom to his flaws and complexities. The Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan, for instance, features Poseidon as the father of the protagonist, Percy Jackson, and explores his role in the modern world.
Conclusion
Poseidon remains one of the most enduring and influential figures in Greek mythology. His stories and symbols have transcended time, continuing to captivate and inspire people around the world. As the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses, Poseidon's legacy is deeply embedded in the fabric of Western culture and history. Through his worship, iconography, and the rich tapestry of stories that surround him, Poseidon exemplifies the complexities and grandeur of ancient Greek religion and mythology. His enduring influence can be seen in the continued fascination with his myths and the artistic representations that keep his legend alive.
