e and aggression. An oracle of Gaea, the goddess of the earth, knew of Athena's power and potential. She warned Zeus of a third generation child who would overthrow him and inherit his kingdom. Metis was a clever goddess and took on the disguise of various creatures such as hawks, fish, and serpents to avoid Zeus. However Zeus could change into many forms as well and he devised a plan to trick the pregnant Metis and swallow her. When Promethius split Zeus's head open, it was the beginning of Athena and eternal wisdom. Metis was the greek goddess of wisdom and the first wife of Zeus. Athena inherited the qualities of Metis and due to her manner of birth became the symbol of intellect and insight. The ability to reflect that Athena posesses is known as "Metis" becuase of her mother and gives her practical wisdom and craftiness. Her reflective nature gives her insight and knowledge to offer those she guides. The image of Athena mourning, a marble bas-relief from the high classical Greek period of 480-450 BC, shows her reflective quality. This quality gives her the advantage over her opponents because it is a premeditated strategy rather than impulsive action. There are endless examples of her benevolence and strategy. Odysseus was one of her mortal companions who she helped return to his family after his long journey. Odysseus was one of her select mortal companions who she helped return to Ithaca after his long journey in the Illiad. Athena saves Odysseus from Calypso when he is stranded on the island with her. After twelve years he is finally able to return to his wife and family whom believed he was dead. Athena realizing Odysseus's pain, demanded Zeus release Odysseus from the nymph Calypso's grasp. Athena gave more to mankind then just her protection. Not only was Athena a patron goddess of Attica, and later all of Athens, but she delivered inventions, health and healing, and academic principals. Some of her inventions include the flu...
