Jan 22 2009
Athena: Greek Goddess of Wisdom, Coelho’s Empowered Woman
Athena has always been one of the most inspiring elements of history and spirituality for me. Revered in Greek culture for her wisdom and prudence, I began to see the importance of confidence in femininity because of Athena. The most wonderful detail about this long-lasting Goddess involves her evolution. As times changed, so did the culture’s myths and stories about Athena, making her truly timeless.
Therefore, it is no surprise that a goddess such as Athena speaks to many of us today. Because she is an ancient Greek deity, people of many religions feel that it is “safe” to study her in a historical and mythological context. From a pagan perspective, radiant Athena is revered as a wise face of the divine Goddess. Some pagans, females in particular, devote themselves to the worship of Athena.
In contemporary times, Catholic author Paulo Coelho takes a very tolerant and universal perspective on spirituality. In his book The Witch of Portobello, Coelho describes the journey of a young woman, aptly named Athena. After the book’s publication, Coelho approved an interactive film project known as The Experimental Witch, asking his readers to make their own version of Athena’s story. In the final project, clips from numerous films are used, and protagonist Athena therefore looks intentionally like a different woman in every scene. 
The point is so: Athena is the everywoman, and from a universalist perspective, a part of every woman.
Coelho also addresses the manner in which others perceive Athena. Athena is not really a witch by any normal standards, but she communicates with the divine through dance and inspires others around her to do so, causing fear against her in her London community. Coelho reminds us that others are often drawn to or fear empowered individuals, especially those who have realized their dreams.
Below is a particularly relevant piece of this story, which deals with others’ perceptions of “witches” (and real witches) as well as discussion about outcasts. This excerpt also deals with the relationships between empowered women and family. This also demonstrates Athena’s maternal, intuitive nature.
”…I became a better person by witnessing your journey.”
