This statue shows the heart of a goddess--that is, that this war-like image is the true essence of Minerva; Minerva exploded onto the Roman mythological scene when Jupiter was suffering from an incurable headache, so much so not even Jupiter's 'doctor' could diagnose the cause or find a treatment.
Some time later, they hadn't gotten any closer to an answer. After much thought a plan was finally devised, a drastic plan that called for 'brain surgery.'
Vulcan, Jupiter's son, was to do the deed. With one cut he chopped open Jupiter's head. What would come out would surprise all around Jupiter, as it was none other than Minerva. She jumped out attired in full war gear.
This image would be her emblem but also hid a gentler side of this goddess. Legends surrounding her showed she was a fair god who sought wisdom in her decision-making.
The Legend Of Athene
All roads lead to Rome and so did they to Attica. Attica was fast becoming the place to be. A happening place that was prospering at a great rate. Sooner or later other regions would hear about its prosperity, people would migrate, commerce would expand, and the crime rate would rise.
This grapevine would not exclude the gods and after some debate a contest to name this great city was under way. A competition that would see Neptune and Minerva at loggerheads and the prize for wisdom and knowing the hearts of mortals was under scrutiny. Jupiter was abjudicator and the decider to provide the better emblem for what Man required for survival.
Neptune made a great horse appear while Minerva provided an olive tree--Jupiter decided that Minerva was the champion as Man required trees for their livelihood. Minerva not only won this contest but the city was renamed after her.
Coming soon read about Minerva's challenge against Arachne and how a spinning competition turns into disaster.
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