The power of Poseidon

Poseidon is Zeus’ older (brother) and was given control of the seas and oceans when the (gods) defeated the (Titans). The sea was very important to the Greeks for transport and (trade), and so Poseidon was widely worshipped. He is able to wreck (ships) with storms, destroy coastal settlements with (earthquakes), and can cause saltwater springs to gush from the ground with a strike of his (trident). Poseidon’s wife was the sea goddess, (Amphitrite). However, like his younger brother Zeus, he had many affairs with gods and humans. His offspring included Polyphemus the (Cyclops) and Theseus.

Poseidon in myth

Poseidon helped to build the famous walls of (Troy) for King Laomedon, but he was never rewarded. Therefore he sided with the Greeks during the (Trojan) War, according to Homer’s (Iliad). In the Odyssey he harasses the Greek hero (Odysseus) on his voyage home from the war, after Odysseus (blinded) his son, Polyphemus the (Cyclops). Poseidon also competed with (Athena, Athene) to name the city which became known as (Athens) after he lost.

Responsibilities

Lord of the sea: Poseidon was given power over the seas by (Zeus). Sea journeys were especially dangerous in ancient times, and so Poseidon would have to be honoured to ensure a safe voyage.

Earthquakes: It may seem odd that the sea god controlled earthquakes, but most earthquakes start at sea. This responsibility also reminds us of Poseidon’s awesome (power, strength).

(Horses): Another seemingly irrational power for a sea god. However, the Greeks thought the breaking waves were like a team of (horses) galloping to shore (even today these are known as “white (horses)”).