Poseidon
Poseidon is the Greek god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses, and a brother of Zeus and Hades. Often shown carrying a three-pronged spear called a trident, he matters in stories because his power can help sailors or turn a voyage into a struggle for survival.
Key stories of Poseidon
The anger against Odysseus
Poseidon punishes Odysseus for blinding his son, the Cyclops Polyphemus. His anger makes the journey home longer and more dangerous.
In The Odyssey, Poseidon sees Odysseus sailing away from Calypso's island and raises a storm that breaks his raft.
In The Odyssey by Homer
The contest for Athens
In the most common version, Poseidon and Athena compete to become the guardian of Athens. Poseidon offers a saltwater spring, but Athena wins with the olive tree.
In Metamorphoses, Athena weaves her contest with Poseidon into a tapestry during her challenge against Arachne. Poseidon strikes the rock with his trident, while Athena produces an olive tree.
In Metamorphoses by Ovid
Helping the Greeks at Troy
Poseidon supports the Greeks in the Trojan War. He intervenes in battle even when Zeus wants the other gods to stay out.
In The Iliad, Poseidon takes the shape of the prophet Calchas and encourages the two warriors named Ajax as the Trojans threaten the Greek ships.
In The Iliad by Homer
How to recognise Poseidon in stories
- Look for a trident, a sea chariot, or horses.
- Notice storms and earthquakes linked to a god's anger.
- Watch for a powerful sea god helping or obstructing a voyage.
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Are Poseidon and Neptune the same god?
Neptune is the Roman god most closely identified with Poseidon. Roman writers often give Neptune the sea powers and stories associated with the Greek god. In The Aeneid, Neptune calms a storm that threatens the Trojan fleet, showing his authority over the sea.
Why does Poseidon hate Odysseus?
Poseidon is angry because Odysseus blinds his son Polyphemus. In The Odyssey, Odysseus does this to escape the Cyclops's cave, but then reveals his name as he sails away. Polyphemus asks his father to punish him, and Poseidon obstructs his return home.
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