No, Poseidon and Athena generally did not get along; they were often rivals in Greek mythology. Their relationship was marked by competition rather than cooperation, most famously demonstrated in their contest for the patronage of the city of Athens.
The Rivalry Between Poseidon and Athena
While the specific details of Athena's personal feelings toward Poseidon are not extensively elaborated upon in myths, their interactions clearly portray them as adversaries. Their most significant dispute arose from a competition to become the patron deity of a new city in Attica.
The Contest for Athens
The burgeoning city, which would later be named Athens, required a patron deity. Both Poseidon, the god of the sea, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, vied for this prestigious role. The contest involved each god presenting a gift to humanity, with the citizens or their king (Cecrops) choosing the offering they deemed most valuable.
Here's how the contest unfolded:
- Poseidon's Offering: The god of the sea struck his trident into the Acropolis, producing a spring of water. While water was undoubtedly valuable, the spring's water was salty, reflecting his domain, and thus not ideal for drinking or agriculture.
- Athena's Offering: In contrast, Athena presented an olive tree on the Acropolis. This gift proved to be far more beneficial, offering the people not only food (olives) but also oil for lamps, cooking, and anointing, as well as wood for construction.
The citizens ultimately chose Athena's gift, recognizing its immense practical value. This victory cemented Athena's status as the city's patron goddess, and the city was named Athens in her honor. The outcome of this contest, where Athena decisively bested Poseidon, served to underscore their inherent rivalry and competitive dynamic.
Their frequent opposition and the outcome of the contest for Athens highlight a relationship defined by competition rather than mutual understanding or friendship.
