Poseidon was one of the twelve Olympian gods in Greek mythology, and was regarded as the god of the sea and earthquakes. He was the son of Cronus and Rhea, and was one of the three brothers who divided the world among themselves. Zeus became the god of the sky and thunder, Hades ruled the underworld, and Poseidon was given dominion over the seas.
The Story of Poseidon
According to Greek mythology, Poseidon was born on the island of Crete. He was known to be temperamental and would often create storms and rough seas if he was angry. He was also said to be able to create new islands, and to have caused earthquakes when he struck the ground with his trident.
Poseidon was a powerful god who was greatly respected and feared by mortals and immortals alike. He was often depicted as a bearded man with a trident, and was sometimes accompanied by dolphins and horses.
Family of Poseidon
Poseidon was the son of Cronus and Rhea, and was the brother of Zeus and Hades. Together, the three brothers were known as the “Big Three” in Greek mythology, and were considered to be the most powerful gods. Poseidon was married to Amphitrite, a sea nymph, and together they had several children, including Triton, who was half-man and half-fish, and Polyphemus, the one-eyed giant who was best known for his encounter with Odysseus in the Odyssey.
Myths and Facts About Poseidon
- Fact: Poseidon was one of the most powerful gods in Greek mythology, and was often called upon by sailors and fishermen for protection on the seas.
- Myth: Poseidon was a vengeful god, and would often punish those who angered him with violent storms and earthquakes.
- Fact: Poseidon was often associated with horses and was said to have created the first horse by striking the ground with his trident.
- Myth: Poseidon was a greedy god who desired power and control over the world, often clashing with his brothers Zeus and Hades.
- Fact: Poseidon was often depicted as a bearded man holding a trident, a symbol of his power over the sea.
- Myth: Poseidon was known for his many love affairs, and was the father of many demigods and heroes, including Theseus and Bellerophon.
- Fact: Poseidon was often worshipped in coastal cities and towns, and many temples were dedicated to him throughout Greece.
- Myth: Poseidon was often associated with earthquakes, which were said to be caused by his striking the earth with his trident.
- Fact: Poseidon was a protector of the seas, and was often called upon for safe voyages, bountiful catches, and calm waters.
- Myth: Poseidon was a god of both creation and destruction, as he could create new islands but also cause devastating storms and floods.
The Symbols of Poseidon
One of the most well-known symbols of Poseidon is the trident, a three-pronged spear that he is often depicted carrying. The trident represents Poseidon’s power and control over the sea, and it is often associated with his ability to create and control earthquakes. In addition to being a symbol of Poseidon, the trident was also a powerful weapon in ancient Greece, often used in battle by heroes and warriors.
Another important symbol of Poseidon is the horse, which is often associated with his role as a god of horses and equestrian sports. Poseidon was believed to have created the first horse, and he was often depicted riding a horse or accompanied by a team of horses. In addition to horses, Poseidon was also associated with other sea creatures, such as dolphins and sea monsters.
In addition to the trident and the horse, Poseidon is often depicted wearing a crown or carrying a scepter. These symbols represent his authority and power as a god, reflecting his position as one of the most powerful figures in the Greek pantheon.