Teaching Students About Athena
Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, is a powerful figure in ancient Greek mythology. Her story and influence have been the subject of many classic works of literature, and she remains a highly regarded symbol of wisdom and strategic thinking.
Integrating lessons about Athena into the classroom curriculum can provide an exciting opportunity to introduce students to the rich history of ancient Greece, while also exploring important themes like leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving.
Here are some approaches to teaching students about Athena:
1. Introduce Athena’s story
Students can learn about Athena by reading various myths about her from ancient Greek literature. The mythology surrounding Athena varies, but key aspects of her story include that she was born fully-grown from the head of her father, Zeus, and that she was a powerful warrior who defended the city of Athens. Athena was known for her intelligence, strategic thinking, and her ability to provide guidance to loyal followers.
2. Explore Athena’s symbols
Athena is often depicted with an owl on her shoulder, which represents wisdom. The owl is a symbol of knowledge in many cultures. She is also frequently associated with the spear and shield, tools that are often linked to Athena’s ability to defend and protect.
3. Analyze Athena’s role in mythology
Students should explore the ways that Athena is portrayed in ancient Greek literature. For example, they might examine how she uses her intelligence and strategic thinking to influence outcomes in myths like the story of Odysseus. They might also look at the role of women in ancient Greece, and consider how Athena, as a powerful female figure, might have been viewed in that context.
4. Discuss Athena’s influence today
Athena remains a widely recognized symbol of wisdom, strategy, and protection. Students can consider the modern-day symbolic use of Athena’s name and image, such as the Athena Parthenos statue in Nashville, Tennessee or the Athena service program for women in science and engineering at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Teaching students about Athena can provide a valuable opportunity to connect ancient mythology to contemporary issues and themes. With their knowledge of Athena’s story and characteristics, students may gain inspiration for their own leadership and decision-making skills.