Athena is primarily known as the virgin goddess of wisdom, warfare, and crafts, and is typically depicted as unmarried. However, there's one account where she is said to be married. According to the Roman author Hyginus, Athena (Minerva in Roman mythology) married Hephaestus (Vulcan).
The Account of Athena's Marriage to Hephaestus
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Source: This account originates from Hyginus, a Roman author who lived in the first century.
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The Narrative: In this version, Hephaestus, the god of blacksmiths and artisans, desired Athena and attempted to force himself upon her.
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The Result: Athena resisted Hephaestus. During the struggle, his seed fell upon the earth, impregnating Gaia (Earth). From this union, Erichthonius was born. Athena then raised Erichthonius.
Why This Marriage is Uncommon
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Virgin Goddess Status: Athena's most well-known attribute is her virginity. She is typically celebrated as a goddess who dedicated herself to wisdom and war, rejecting romantic relationships and marriage.
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Lack of Widespread Acceptance: The Hyginus account isn't widely accepted or repeated in most classical literature or depictions of Athena. The vast majority of sources portray her as unmarried.
Summary
While the predominant image of Athena is that of a virgin goddess who never married, the Roman author Hyginus presents an account where she is married to Hephaestus. However, this is a less common depiction.
