Poseidon is the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses. He is often represented by his three-pronged trident and horses.
Poseidon was one of the children of Rhea and Cronos, and helped his siblings and uncles overthrow his father. After the battle was over, he, Zeus, and Hades threw dice to see which realm each god would rule. Zeus chose the sky, and Poseidon chose the sea. He married Thetis, a sea nymph, but after hearing a troubling prophecy that his offspring with Thetis would be greater than he, decided to marry her off to a human instead (her son with Peleus became Achilles). He then married the sea nymph Amphitrite, but continued to be unfaithful like his brother Zeus. He is thought to be the father of Theseus, Orion, and Polyphemus, the famous Cyclops who imprisons Odysseus in his cave in Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey. It is also Poseidon who curses Odysseus because of his pride and arrogance, making his journey home last ten years. Poseidon is also a key player in helping the Greeks gain the upper hand in the Trojan war, as Homer outlines in The Iliad.
Poseidon is thought to have created the horse to impress the goddess Demeter. In fact, Poseidon is credited with making many different kinds of creatures: the octopus, the jellyfish, the dolphin, the camel, the giraffe, and the zebra in efforts to impress his different love interests. Poseidon’s rule over the sea also gave him dominion over the land, and he was known to cause earthquakes. The Greeks prayed to Poseidon before traveling over the sea, but they believed their safe passage was subject to his whims and moods.
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Parents
Cronos and Rhea
Power / Domain
- Sea
- Earthquakes
- Horses
Symbols
- Trident
- Horse
Notable Myths
- Overthrow of Cronos
- Contest with Athena for Athens
- Main obstacle in The Odyssey
How Tos about Poseidon: Greek God
Engage students with a Poseidon-themed creative activity
Capture student interest by starting the lesson with a fun Poseidon introduction, such as reading a myth or showing a short video. This helps set the scene and sparks curiosity.
Guide students in making their own trident craft
Provide materials like construction paper, sticks, and markers for students to create Poseidon's trident. Encourage creativity and connect the craft to Poseidon's powers.
Facilitate a small group discussion about Poseidon's role in Greek mythology
Divide students into groups and give guiding questions about Poseidon's powers, family, and importance among the Olympians. This builds teamwork and deeper understanding.
Incorporate a Poseidon fact-finding scavenger hunt
Hide fact cards around the classroom featuring Poseidon's symbols, stories, and related sea creatures. Let students search and share facts, making learning interactive.
Wrap up with a reflection and myth retelling exercise
Ask students to retell a Poseidon myth or share what surprised them most about him. This reinforces key concepts and encourages personal connections to the material.
Frequently Asked Questions about Poseidon: Greek God
Who is Poseidon in Greek mythology?
Poseidon is the ancient Greek god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses. He is one of the twelve Olympian gods and is often depicted holding a trident.
What are Poseidon's main powers and symbols?
Poseidon's powers include controlling the ocean, creating storms, and causing earthquakes. His main symbol is the trident, and he is also associated with horses and dolphins.
Why was Poseidon important to the ancient Greeks?
Poisidon was important because the Greeks relied on the sea for travel, trade, and food. They believed he protected sailors and could create earthquakes or storms if angered.
How is Poseidon different from other Olympian gods?
Poisidon is different because he rules the sea, while other Olympians like Zeus rule the sky and Hades the underworld. Each god controlled a unique part of the world in Greek myths.
What are some famous myths involving Poseidon?
Famous myths with Poseidon include the contest with Athena for Athens, his role in the Odyssey, and creating the first horse. He often appears in stories about gods and heroes.
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