by Chrystina Trulove-Reyes

Created on: November 30, 2008   Last Updated: August 17, 2010

Anyone who has studied Greek Mythology is familiar with Poseidon. Poseidon was the god of the ocean, rivers, springs and lakes, the brother of Zeus and Hades. But few people realize that he was the sire of numerous of the creatures that dwelt in many of the Greek myths.

Poseidon was also known as the “Earth Shaker.” A common belief of those times was that the earth rested on the sea, like an island. Because of this, any time there were earthquakes, Poseidon was blamed for it. Also as the ruler of the sea, he was seen as the creator and director of storms. He was often prayed to in order to provide safe passage for sailors and fishermen.

According to legend, he created the horse and favored it thereafter. He was the one who taught man to tame the animal and created the bridle to assist man’s efforts.

He was one of the first Olympian gods born of Cronus and Rhea. His siblings were Zeus, Hades, Demeter, Hestia, and Hera. Cronus, in fear of losing his throne, and the power over mortals and titans, began to eat his children after they were born, including Poseidon. Fortunately for the eaten children, they were swallowed whole and were able to live in Cronus’ stomach.  Rhea, their mother, finally had enough and switched the baby Zeus for a stone, which Cronus swallowed. Later, Zeus returned and caused Cronus to expel his siblings.

Poseidon and his siblings planned the overthrow of Cronus and enlisted the cyclops for their cause. Known for their smithing abilities, the cyclops created magical weapons for the gods. Of these weapons was the Trident, which became a representation of Poseidon’s power. In legend, the trident acted as a wand and focused the power that already resided inside Poseidon.
 
Once the titans were defeated in battle, Zeus was chosen to be the leader of the Olympians. He then divided the realms between himself and his two brothers. While Zeus controlled the skies and heavens, Hades was given the underworld and Poseidon the oceans and waters of the earth. Poseidon retired to his realm and met his wife, a sea nymph named Amphitrite. In some myths, he and Amphitrite had only one son, the Triton. In others, Amphitrite was incapable of bearing children.

However, Poseidon was well known for his wanderlust. He coupled with many other goddesses, including Demeter, the virgin goddess in horse form, as well as numerous beautiful human women. There are upwards of 20 entities that were born from these unions. Many of these

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