Athena was the Greek goddess of wisdom, war, and civilization. She was typically depicted with symbols of war like a helmet, lance, and shield, as well as an olive branch, representing her role. According to myth, she sprang from the head of Zeus after he swallowed her mother Metis. Athena helped defend Athens in its contest with Poseidon and was thereafter its patron goddess. She also aided heroes of Greek mythology, such as Perseus, Jason, and Odysseus.