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Apr 2023
47m 46s

Athena: Goddess of Wisdom

History Hit
About this episode

This episode contains graphic references of a sexual nature.


Athena is the goddess of wisdom, tactical war and skilled craft in Greek mythology.


She is the favourite daughter of Zeus and Metis, and is actually born from Zeus himself. She is one of the most recognisable Greek divinities, often depicted with her signature peaked helmet, spear, breast plate and shield, often with Medusa’s head it. One of the most important myths of Athena is the contest between herself and her uncle, Poseidon, for the patronage of Athens. Spoiler alert: Athena wins. To continue our immersion into the deities of the Greek Gods, this week Tristan Hughes is joined by Rachel Kousser, Professor of Art History at the City University of New York. Together they discuss Athena’s most iconic representations in both art and literature, and how she has become one of the must enduring figures of antiquity. 


The Senior Producer was Elena Guthrie

Script written by Andrew Hulse

Voice over performed by Nicola Woolley

The Assistant Producer was Annie Coloe

Edited by Aidan Lonergan


If you enjoyed this episode, you might also enjoy other episodes in the series: Zeus: King of the Gods, Hera: Queen of the Gods, Hephaestus: God of Fire, Aphrodite: Goddess of Love, and Ares: God of War.


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We've also teamed up with Collette to provide our North American History HitWe've teamed up with Collette to provide our North American History Hit Subscribers with the opportunity to join Tristan on a trip to Rome and the Amalfi Coast. You'll spend 3 days exploring all Rome has to offer and then a further 3 days soaking up the history of the Amalfi coast. Follow this link to find out more. History Hit subscribers will save $50 to $100 per person per tour.



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