What connections or influences does Poseidon have with ancient culture?
Along with Zeus and Hades, Poseidon was one of the chief gods of the Greeks. While Zeus was the god of the heavens and Hades was lord of the underworld/hell, Poseidon was god of the sea. Though Zeus was recognized as the supreme god, the other two were his brothers and were immensely powerful. In fact, Poseidon was often called by the epithet “Earthshaker.” As the Greeks were seafarers, depending on the Mediterranean for trade, they lived in fear and awe of Poseidon. Thus they were constantly appeasing him with sacrifices–usually of bulls. They also dedicated many temples to him. The Greeks were wise, remembering how Poseidon’s wrath helped to destroy Troy; likewise recalling how Poseidon stirred up the seas against Odysseus. As the Romans adopted Greek religion, they too worshipped Poseidon (under the Latinate name Neptune) as one of the major gods.
