Mythology | Symbols

Armor and Weapons

Armor and weapons are symbols of power because they confer power on those who use them. Odysseus wields power over his wife's suitors because he alone can string and wield his bow. Theseus claims his birthright as a king of Athens when he is old enough to claim his father's sword. Perseus wields power over terrible monsters because he possesses a sword and shield from the gods. These weapons also allow the users some measure of control over natural forces. When Perseus slays a sea monster, he exerts power over the sea itself, for example.

Animals

Each god is associated with an animal or animals that reflect personal traits.

Aphrodite

• Traits: attractive; beautiful
• Animal: dove

Apollo

• Traits: handsome; strong; young; musical; prophetic
• Animals: wolf; raven; lizard

Ares

• Traits: difficult; combative; quick-footed; prone to war
• Animal: dog

Artemis

• Traits: virginal; skilled hunter
• Animals: deer; bear; snake

Athena

• Traits: protective; skillful; wise adviser
• Animal: owl

Demeter

• Traits: peaceful; agricultural
• Animals: winged serpent; pig

Dionysus

• Traits: lighthearted; helpful; handsome
• Animals: panther; tiger

Hades

• Traits: dark; gloomy; silent
• Animal: Cerebus, the three-headed dog

Hephaestus

• Traits: kind; lovable; ugly; lame; skillful
• Animals: donkey; dog; crane

Hera

• Traits: fair; elegant; suspicious; jealous
• Animals: peacock; cow

Hermes

• Traits: speedy; prone to thievery; witty
• Animal: ram

Poseidon

• Traits: temperamental; moody; greedy; strong; imposing
• Animals: dolphin; horse

Zeus

• Traits: admired; fair; just; powerful; strong; imposing; unpredictable
• Animal: eagle