He was the son of Titans Crius and Eurybia; and during the Titanomachy, Pallas fought against the Olympians - a new and powerful generation of gods who were led by Zeus . [28] In both these examples Nike is associated with victory in an athletic competition rather than only a military competition. In Greek Mythology, Nike was the Goddess of speed, strength and victory. What is Nike passionate about Greek mythology? As the goddess of victory, she appeared as a winged figure holding a laurel wreath above the heads of those. "Art as a Trophy: the Nike of Paionios. "The Priestess of Athena Nike. One of them, Nike adjusting her sandal, known as "The Sandal Binder" depicts the goddess draped in figure-revealing wet fabric. Nike probably did not originally have a separate cult at Athens. [51] The earliest substantial evidence for a priestess of Athena Nike is provided in a decree named IG i^3 35 passed in the early fifth century by the Athenian Demos. That may well be, but shortly after the temple was completed, a parapet wall with a frieze of several winged Nikes was added. This makes a whole lot of sense, considering the fact that Nike was the bringer of victory, i.e. What was the goddess Nike known for? When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. What is Nike in Greek mythology? Nike is also depicted in literature as a goddess who judges the excellence of gods and mortals in competition. [50], The cult of Athena Nike was functioning as early as the beginning of the sixth century. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Athena Nike was always wingless. One is estimated to be 29 feet tall. [35] The statue originally stood near the temple of Zeus on an 8.45m high, three sided pillar. Nike (Greek mythology) is the Greek goddess of victory, both in battle and in sport. If this is true it would make the word cognate with Ancient Greek (nekos, "strife") and Lithuanian ap-nikti ("to attack"). Learn more about the goddess, her story, and the mythology surrounding her before you visit the Acropolis of Athens, where she takes her place beside Athena. His explanation was that the Athenians removed the goddess's wings to prevent her from ever leaving Athens. Nike being depicted holding wreath reminds us that as the Goddess of Victory she was always ready to encase a winners neck and shoulders in a garland of victory. Since 1928, the Olympics Medal has sported Nike on the obverse side bearing her wreath of victory and the shield upon which the victors name is inscribed. The largest known dwarf planet in Kuiper Belt, Pluto, has a moon called Styx. [42] However, there remains significant debate over whether the cult of Athena Nike in its earlier years had its own priestess, no priestess, or if it shared a priestess with a nearby cult. The decree was unusual because it broke with Athenian tradition by handing over control of the cult to the state and instituting a democratic selection of the next priestess of Athena Nike by lot from all Athenian women. 10 Fast Facts on Athena and Her Parthenon, The Twelve Olympian Gods and Goddesses of Greek Mythology, The Greek Mythology of Clash of the Titans, Hecate: Greece's Dark Goddess of the Crossroads. [49] As a result of the merging of the two goddesses Athena Nike was worshipped as a goddess of victory in Athens, particularly military victory. [52], While the decree does not state the identity of the new priestess, a verse epitaph on a marble stele funerary monument reveals that the first priestess of Athena Nike to be selected democratically by lot was Myrrhine, daughter of Kallimachos. Not only is she the goddess of accomplishment she is also the goddess of triumphs, speed, strength, and military. Although her wings are lost, the roots of them can still be seen behind her shoulders. The purpose of the lyre was to celebrate victory while the wreath was for crowning the victor. The primordial gods were the first to emerge from ChaosGaia, the Earth Mother; Kronos, the spirit of Time; Uranus, the sky and Thalassa, the spirit of the sea, among them. Nike, in ancient Greek religion, the goddess of victory, daughter of the giant Pallas and of the infernal River Styx. For the swoosh symbol that appears on the side of each Nike shoe, Nike employee Carolyn Davis was paid $35 for the design. Beekes has suggested a Pre-Greek origin. The straight lines of her garments imply weightiness and the pull of gravity during her gentle descent. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In some Indo-European languages, the name came from Neik which means to attack or to start something strongly. She was the child of Pallas (Titan) and Styx In most beliefs, Styx is the name of the river that separates Planet Earth from the Gates of Hell (Hades). According to legend, Nike is the daughter of Pallas, the Titan, and Styx, the ocean goddess (not Styx of the underworld). Nike Daughter of Styx The goddess Nike was the daughter of the second generation Titan Pallas, Pallas was the early Greek god of Battle, and the Oceanid Styx. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. "[46], In Athens Nike was often honored alongside Athena or as an attribute of Athena, where she was called Athena Nike. [32], As time goes on Nike's legs begin to straighten and her movement becomes a more subtle alighting movement with a slight forward component. What Is Nike The Goddess Of Nike, also known as Victory or Victoria, is the Greek goddess of victory. ", Blok, Josine (2014). [15] According to the Theogony Nike, Zelus, Kratos, and Bia "will not live apart from Zeus nor go except where the god goes before them, but they sit for ever beside heavy-booming Zeus. The Story of Nike, the Greek Goddess of Victory. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. The name was chosen because nike is the goddess of speed and victory. [4] In Greek literature Nike is described as both an attribute and attendant to the gods Zeus and Athena. According to Michael Laughy, the priesthood was traditionally controlled by a genos or family clan who selected the next priestess from one of their heirs. [12] Sikes postulates that the theory that Nike first originated from Athena arose from the confusion of the two goddesses at Athens where Athena Nike and Nike existed alongside each other. The swoosh logo reflects the swoop, but the "swoosh" was not an ancient symbol of Nike. [10] However, it has also been speculated to have derived from the Proto-Indo-European neik- meaning to attack or "start vehemently." According to Sikes, Nike was worshipped as a facet of Athena because Athena was Athens's patron goddess and thus held greater power in her own city and acropolis. However, he holds that the Athena Nike personality continued to exist alongside the distinct Nike personality. Nike herself is posed atop a globe, which is acting as the base. In keeping with Zeuss promise to make Nike to live forever as the Goddess of speed, strength and victory, people of all ages have the opportunity to wear Nike shoes. Fragments of Nike's face, forearms, and wings are missing, however, pieces of her wings can still be seen attached to her shoulders. We've worked with the likes of Ancestry.com, Kingspan and DAA in helping them tell their story. The River Styx was named for Nikes grandfather Tethys. Nikes reward for doing this was that Zeus promised to keep her near him and to protect her forever. In turn, the Olympians Zeus, Hera, Athena, Apollo, and Aphroditedefeated them and became the leading gods. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. Among artistic representations of Nike are the sculpture by Paeonius (c. 420 bce) and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. This statue is speculated to be from the Hellenistic period according to Andrew Parkin. Both Nike statues in Zeus's and Athena's hands were winged. victory in all aspects of ones life, not just in war. the god of death. According to a paper by Harrison (as cited in Sikes, 1895) Nike was once a facet of the Greek goddess Athena, who was composed of Boulaia (good council), Ergane (skilled handcraft), and Nike (victory). Thus, the process of selecting a priestess in Athens was not traditionally a democratic process. Given her striking appearance and unique skills, Nike does not actually appear in many mythological stories. Required fields are marked *. Last modified March 16, 2022, Your email address will not be published. Worldhistoryedu is not responsible for the content of external sites. This statue of Nike was made of Parian marble and was dedicated to Zeus by the Messenians and Naupaktians around 420 BCE during the Classical period. [48] The three votive processions on the parapet of the Temple of Athena Nike display this relationship between Athena and Nike. Her role is almost always as a companion and helper of Zeus or Athena. [12], In Greek mythology Nike, the personification of victory, has two possible origin stories. "[17] As a result, Nike is often portrayed in literature in association with Zeus since she holds an honorable position by his side: "Victory in golden Olympus, standing beside Zeus"[18], In Nonnos' Dionysiaca, Nike is described as an emissary of Athena who was sent to aid Zeus in his battle against Typhon. Nike was theGreek goddess of victory, closely associated with warfare as well as athletics. Nike was one of four children of the Titan god of war Pallas, and the Naiad Styx (not to be confused with the river Styx of Hades Underworld ). Regula, deTraci. [38] The statue is made of white marble and is seventy-three centimeters tall. Anti-Aircraft Missile System, and the sports equipment maker, Nike, have one way or the other used the name or the symbols of the goddess Nike. When Zeus was gathering allies at the start of the Titan War, Styx brought her four children Nike (Victory), Zelos (Rivalry), Kratos (Cratus Strength) and Bia (Force) into the god's service. When Zeus was gathering allies at the start of the Titan War, Styx brought her four children Nike (Victory), Zelos (Rivalry), Kratos (Cratus Strength) and Bia (Force) into the god's service. ThoughtCo. She is typically described as either an attendant of the Greek Gods Zeus and Athena or as a facet of their personalities. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); World History Edu 2022. According to this theory, Nike eventually broke off from Athena to form her own distinct personality. Nike is also associated with speed and agility which perhaps also explains why this Goddess of victory is used as a tradename for a famous brand of sportswear. [32] This slight forward and downward motion is illustrated in the Capitoline Nike (460 BCE) from Magna Grecia. So Pallas Athena is the representation of the goddess as a warrior and Athena Nike is the goddess victorious. Several panels of this frieze can be seen in the Acropolis Museum, below the Acropolis. [36] In this statue of Nike from the fifth century the goddess's alighting motion is towards the viewer as opposed to the sideways running motion of earlier statues. The distinct Nike personality continued to coexist alongside the Athena Nike personality and became a servant to Athena, or a "Lady of Victory" according to Sikes. Also known as Winged Goddess, Nike is most often pictured as having wings. Nike, goddess of accomplishments and the child of Pallas, the Titan, is known for accomplishing victories and her being involved in the Titan War. Nike (or Nic) was a Greek goddess who embodied victory in any discipline, including art, music, warfare, and sports. Her responsibilities are described in the Myrrhine epigram (IG i^3 1330) and include maintaining the sanctuary and its statues. Nike is also portrayed erecting a trophy or, frequently, hovering with outspread wings over the victor in a competition, for her functions referred to success not only in war but in all undertakings. Thus, a break in custom to transfer religious authority from the genos to the state was exceptional for Athens during that time as it transformed the cult of Athena Nike into a polis-cult, a cult funded and overseen by the Athenian city-state. And, through her Roman incarnation, she has entered our language as more than the name of a competitive running shoe and an anti-aircraft missile. But, by far, her large wings are her greatest attribute. The fusion of the two goddesses at Athens has contributed to the ambiguity surrounding Nike's origins. [39] Her head is bent downwards slightly so that her gaze rests on the ground rather than the viewer. [17] For Styx he gave her the honor of being "the great oath of the gods"[17] For her children Zeus granted them his eternal favor by allowing them "to dwell with him for all time. In Greek Mythology, Nike was the Goddess of speed, strength and victory. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/greek-mythology-nike-1525981. If you're attracted to the Greek goddess Nike, you're onto a winner: Nike is the goddess of victory. When she is pictured with the Staff of Hermes, this means that one of Nikes roles was to serve as a messenger from the gods. In fact, in contrast with depictions of earlier winged gods, who could take the form of birds in stories, by the classical period, Nike is unique in having kept hers. This statue was made of Thasian marble and showed the goddess standing almost completely straight with a slight lean forwards to indicate Nike's downward and slight forward alighting motion. By now you are probably wondering what all this has to do with Nike. For example, Michael Jordan is said to have made more money from his Nike endorsements than all of its manufacturing labor force. Nike was the Greek goddess of Victory and one of the extraordinary number of gods and goddesses worshipped by the Ancient Greeks. According to myth, Nike's mother Styx brought her children to Zeus when the god was assembling allies for the battle against the Titans. According to Pausanias's Description of Greece, the statue of Zeus "holds Victory in ivory and gold" in his right hand and a scepter with an eagle perched atop it in his left hand. Her left arm is raised and once held her himation, or outer robe, as it blew out behind her in the wind. [33] Richard Neer proposes that this posture with the running stance, wings, and flowing garments were meant to evoke the swift speed of the goddess. During the war with the Titans Zeus called all the gods to Olympus to determine their allegiance. It is unclear whether she originated from a character trait of the Greek goddess Athena or has always existed as an independent deity. He declared that any god that chose to align with him against Kronos would receive his honor and favor. Origins and Genealogy: Her father was the Titan, Pallas and her mother was an Oceanid named Styx. Stories about the goddess said that she would "swoop" in suddenly. If you use any of the content on this page in your own work, please use the code below to cite this page as the source of the content. Instead of flying sideways, Paionios's Nike advances forward with feet just alighting upon the ground. View complete answer on greekgodsandgoddesses.net. This work of art lives at the Getty Villa. Although Pluto is no longer considered a planet by some planetary experts, in 2013 Styx was recognized as a moon of Pluto. The parents of Nike were Pallas and Styx. Also known as Winged Goddess, Nike is most often pictured as having wings. According to many accounts, Nike is portrayed without wings in Athens so that she could never fly away from their city. [16] Of the gods, Styx and her children were the first to declare their loyalty to Zeus and as a result Zeus granted her and her children his favor. She often carries the staff of Hermes, symbolic of her role as the messenger of Victory. And, through her Roman incarnation, she has entered our language as more than the name of a competitive running shoe and an anti-aircraft missile. Her excellent attributes landed her a position at the right hand of Zeus during the war against the Titans. As proof of the power of Nike, many sports stars maintain they owe their success to Nike shoes. The Nike sports brand logo has an indirect connection with the goddess Nike. She appears with Zeus on statues in places such as the Temple of Zeus in Attica and on the west portico of the Temple of Athena in Athens. The statue itself was roughly two meters high and was orientated to face the east. She came to be regarded as the protecting goddess of the Senate, and her statue in the Curia Julia (originally set up by Augustus in memory of the Battle of Actium) was the cause of the final combat between Christianity and paganism toward the end of the 4th century. Check out our the goddess nike selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our shops. The story begins with a winged champion named Nike. The staff also granted its holder the ability to move seamlessly to and fro the living world and the underworld. According to Hesiod's Theogony, "Styx, daughter of Oceanus, in union with Pallas, bore trim-ankled Victory [Nike]" as well as her siblings Zelus (Zeal or Aspiration), Kratos (Strength), and Bia (Power). [32], By the mid Classical period and the start of the Hellenistic period, statues of Nike begin to portray her with legs almost completely straight in an alighting pose meant to evoke an appearance out of nothing rather than a hurtling into view. "[16] Nike and her siblings achieved these honorable positions by Zeus's side during the Titanomachy. One such example is Pheidias's statue of Zeus at Olympia. It was also not uncommon for both ancient Greeks and Romans to pray to Nike to spare them from a bad situation or death. Her winged, straight, and slightly bent posture evokes the appearance that she is looking down at where to place her feet as she descends. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. The Romans knew her as Victoria, a name that obviously means "victory", and is still popular today. [13] In another source, Homeric Hymn 8, Ares the God of War is portrayed as the "father of warlike Victory. [53] This decree was also significant, according to Josine Blok, because it gave all Athenian women access to influential and prominent cultic roles in the Athenian city-state during a time when Athenian women's freedoms were fairly limited. The small, perfectly formed Temple of Athena Nike, to the right of the Propylaeathe entrance to the Acropolis of Athensis the earliest, Ionic temple on the Acropolis. Regula, deTraci. Her father was the second generation Titan, Pallas, the first Greek god of battle before Ares took the role. Baudrillart, in another paper (as cited in Sikes, 1895), shares a similar view that Nike was once a part of Athena and separated from her around the 5th century. Due. Nike is often seen with a shield upon which it was said that she inscribed the name of each victor of a battle. Her image has been on the medals since 1928. Nike As an attribute of both Athena, the goddess of wisdom, and the chief god, Zeus, Nike was represented in art as a small figure carried in the hand by those divinities. He is represented as a small figure in the hand of gods like Zeus and Athena, his ally. Zeus is neither hesitant nor fearful and Nike makes no appearance to encourage or aid Zeus in the fighting.[25]. It's considered one of the most erotic carvings on the Acropolis. The Athena Nike statue within the Temple of Athena Nike on the Athenian Acropolis depicts the Greek goddess wingless[4] and seated with a pomegranate in her right hand and her helmet in her left hand. Eudaimon Eudaimon is the Greek expression for 'Good Spirit'. As times started to . Rumor has it she later received an undisclosed amount of stock options as well. While Nike's forearms and wings are missing the sockets for attaching her wings can be seen on her back. The legend and myth about Nike has been passed down through the ages and plays an important role in the history of the Ancient World and the study of the Greek classics. Here at All Good Tales, we believe that storytelling can help your business succeed. According to Greek mythology, Nike was the daughter of the goddess Styx and the titan Pallas; some stories say that she was the daughter of Mars, the god of war. Queen Victorias Father, the Duke of Kent, The Boston Massacre: The American Revolution, Staff of Hermes and the golden winged sandals, Pegasus Birth Story, Family, Meaning, Symbols & Powers, 24 Bright Facts about Apollo the Greek Sun God, The Myth of Phaethon and the Sun Gods Chariot. Nike had three siblings: Zelos (Zeal), Bia (force), and Cratus . [45] He also mentioned the Temple of Athena Nike in Athens: "On the right of the gateway [of the Akropolis in Athens] is a temple of Nike Apteron (Wingless Nike). During this event, she functioned as his chief charioteer. Regardless of whether it is 2017 or 250BC, mankind has equated success and triumph with being regarded as #1 in some pursuit whether it be a sport or in our career. Her mother was an Oceanid, a sea nymph, named Styx. She was the daughter of the Titan Pallas and the goddess Styx, sister of Kratos (power), Bia (Force) and Zelus (zeal). According to some ancient Greek texts, Nike was regarded as the daughter of. https://www.thoughtco.com/greek-mythology-nike-1525981 (accessed December 11, 2022). Instagram: @GoddessNike23. [24] In the Theogony, this battle is described in a different manner. In fact, it was her mother who took them all to . In Roman Mythology, Nike was known as Victoria, after Greece fell to the Roman Empire. Nike Q&A Who was Nike? We'd love to help you with a free consultation. DeTraci Regula is a freelance writer who has specialized in Greek travel and tours for 18 years. Nashville, TN Articles from Britannica Encyclopedias for elementary and high school students. Their children, the Titans (Prometheus who gave fire to man is probably the most famous) replaced them. While the Greek word (nik) is of uncertain etymology, R.S.P. Famous and global brands such as Rolls-Royce, Honda Motorcycles, U.S. In Greek Mythology, Nike was the Goddess of speed, strength and victory. Created about 200 B.C., it is one of the most famous sculptures in the world. [29] Typically, Nike is the one who bestows the victor with the prize. The company Nike, Inc. was named after the goddess. [54] The final unusual aspect of the decree was that it broke with Athenian tradition by handing over responsibility of the priesthood from the genos to the state. This symbolizes her readiness to toast to the victor of the battle. Your email address will not be published. She was the child of Pallas (Titan) and Styx In most beliefs, Styx is the name of the river that separates Planet Earth from the Gates of Hell (Hades). Nike was an important deity in ancient Greece, and her worship was widespread. [52] For example, the priestess of Athena Polias was the heir of the aristocratic Eteoboutadai genos, since they controlled the priesthood for Athena Polias. By the classical period, many of these early gods and goddesses had been reduced to the role of attributes or aspects of the leading gods, much as the pantheon of Hindu gods are symbolic aspects of the main gods. As an attribute of both Athena, the goddess of wisdom, and the chief god, Zeus, Nike was represented in art as a small figure carried in the hand by those divinities. Statues of her often include a lyre or kithara used to celebrate a victory with song and dance. She was often depicted as a beautiful young woman with wings, holding a lyre, wreath and a bowl and cup. At Rome, where Nike was called Victoria, she was worshipped from the earliest times. [57] While neither decrees specified the tenure of her office, Blok proposes that Myrrhine would have likely served for life since that was the tradition for Athenian women serving in cultic offices. Her wings are attached to her upper back and her body runs to the side while her head is turned to observe the viewer instead of the place she is running to. Find out if it's on view . [18] For instance in Pindar Nemean 5, the victorious athlete Euthymenes of Aegina has "twice fallen into the arms of Victory" and achieved fame. ! Who were the parents of Nike? In the Theogony, she is the daughter of a Titan and an Oceanid. [9] Her Roman equivalent was Victoria. In Bacchylides Ode 11 she is introduced with the stock epithet "giver of swift gifts"[18] However, Nike is also represented in some sources as the prize in a contest to symbolize victory: " the blossoms of glory-bringing Victory nurture for men golden, conspicuous fame throughout their lives"[30] In this source Nike is portrayed as a garland of flowers to be bestowed upon the victor during the Panhellenic Games. 'victory', ancient: [n. [36] At her feet an eagle is shown to fly to the viewer's left as Nike moves forward with left leg stepping down to touch the earth. I am goddess Nike, the golden blest goddess of Victory, and I welcome you to my website where you will learn about my life & the world I live in. Athena Nike was always wingless. Throughout her history, she has been allied with the most powerful gods in the Greek Pantheon. [12] According to Sikes, Nike existed as an independent deity from Athena since Nike represented victory in musical, athletic, and military competitions and Athena's authority was limited to strictly military victories. In her speech she mentions all the gods that have given up and fled the battle including Ares, Hermes, Apollo, Aphrodite, and Hephaistos. The Greek pantheon of gods and goddesses features three waves of leading deities. [32] In the Archaic period of ancient Greek sculpture Nike often appears in a "kneeling run" pose or "knielaufen" pose with her head turned to the side to look at the viewer as her body swiftly rushes forward. She is frequently depicted in Greek art as Winged Victory in flight, although she can also be depicted without wings as "Wingless Victory" when she is being portrayed as an attribute of another deity, such as Athena. As an attribute of both Athena, the goddess of wisdom, and the chief god, Zeus, Nike was represented in art as a small figure carried [] The Romans called her Victoria. Nike's resilience and determination made her recognizable throughout her time, eventually naming her a Goddess. Nike alone was winged. The statue of Athena that once stood inside it was not winged. She probably needed them because she is often portrayed flying around battlefields, rewarding victory, glory, and fame by handing out laurel wreaths. web . She is often seen seated beside Zeus on Mount Olympus. The latter, discovered on Samothrace in 1863 and now in the Louvre Museum, Paris, was probably erected by Rhodians about 190 bce to commemorate a sea battle. She and her siblings are said to be very close to Zeus, the dominant god of Olympus. Nike was the goddess of victory in Greek mythology, depicted as having wings, hence her alternative name "Winged Goddess". Regarding death, it is believed that when Nike possessed the Staff of Hermes, she had the ability to resurrect dead people. Updates? Nike has been the symbol used since 1945 by Americas Anti Aircraft Missile System. Also, Nike has sometimes been linked to the musical instruments Lyre (or Kithara). [32] An example of a transitional phase in movement from the "kneeling run" to the alighting and striding pose is Paionios's statue of Nike discovered in the Temple of Zeus at Olympia. Ancient Greeks worshiped Nike because they believed she could make them never to die and was able to grant to humans strength and the speed needed to be victorious in any task they undertook. A portion of the hood ornament on all Rolls-Royce vehicles includes a depiction of Nike. Since Athena held greater power in Athens, she acquired some of the functions traditionally only Nike possessed as well as her title of Victory. "The Story of Nike, the Greek Goddess of Victory." Statues of her attempt to evoke a sense of flight. Corrections? By changing Nike's stance, Paionios has relinquished depiction of Nike's swift speed in favor of depicting her in a forward alighting motion that directly engages the viewer. Known as Winged Victory, or the Winged Victory of Samothrace, it presents the goddess standing on the prow of a boat. This is because a victory parade or ceremony can never be complete without some form of singing or dancing. 3/14girls!! A Greek would say, "When we go to battle and win, we say it is Nike." According to Greek Mythology, The Nike was the winged goddess of victory. Nike was a goddess from the ancient Greek pantheon, and although not one of the major deities, Nike was still an important figure who represented Victory to the ancient Greeks. Nike, the winged goddess, was born to the Titan Pallas and the nymph Styx. [27] In Bacchylides Ode 12 Nike encourages Teisias of Aegina to compete in the wrestling matches at Nemea. [8] This lineage is also supported by the Bibliotheca where "Nice, Cratos, Zelos, and Bia" are described as the children of the Titans Pallas and Styx. She did have three brothers - Zelos (rivalry),Kratos(strength) and Bia (force). In the modern Olympics, the Olympic medals given to winners have the image of the goddess Nike. ", Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license, http://data.perseus.org/citations/urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0199.tlg001.perseus-eng1:11, https://www.cs.uky.edu/~raphael/sol/sol-html/, http://data.perseus.org/citations/urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0013.tlg008.perseus-eng1:1, File:Zeus Typhon Staatliche Antikensammlungen 596.jpg, http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/textdoc=Ov.+Met.+8.12&fromdoc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.02.0028, File:Nike of Paionios, Olympia Archaeological Museum (16309967616).jpg, http://www.kansalliskirjasto.fi/fi/search?keyword=yleistieto%20tiedotus%20lehdistokuvat_muistiin_painettua.html#11, https://www.bartleby.com/library/prose/3952.html, File:Temple of Athena Nik from Propylaea, Acropolis, Athens, Greece.jpg, A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities, Online version at the Perseus Digital Library, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nike_(mythology)&oldid=1125200148, This page was last edited on 2 December 2022, at 18:49. Regula, deTraci. Nike is the Greek goddess of victory, both in regards to war and friendly competition. "[26] However, Nike's role of judging excellence is not limited to strictly military prowess. In an alternative story, recorded by Homer, she is the daughter of Ares, Zeus's son and the Olympian god of war - but the tales of Nike probably predates stories of Ares by millennia. Instead, Nike observes victory in any field including musical, athletic, and or military competitions. As Zeus rode off from the battlefield, Nike followed him driving her father's chariot. [41] Nike typically appears without wings in Greek sculpture when she is being represented as an attribute of another deity, such as Athena. Nike, described as Victory, led Zeus into battle as Eris, Strife, led Typhon. Excavations have shown that the sculpture was placed alighting on a flagship, which was set in the ground in such a way that it appeared to float. In fact, the ancient city of Nike was named You can call Gaye on (01) 254 1845 to organise yours today. [22] During the fighting Nike used her shield to protect Zeus while he fought with his thunderbolts and frigid rain. The latest Tweets from Goddess Nike (@GoddessNike23). Everything you need to know about Hades the Greek God of the Underworld. Nike had no consort or children. That word means strife or struggle. [32] The statue of Nike from the Temple of Neptune at Corfu also implies a gently appearance out of nothing rather than a hurtling from somewhere. [1] She is often portrayed in Greek art as Winged Victory in the motion of flight;[2] however, she can also appear without wings as "Wingless Victory"[3] when she is being portrayed as an attribute of another deity such as Athena. Nike (mythology) Nike Goddess of victory Stone carving of the goddess Nike at the ruins of the ancient [] The goddess Nike came to be an everlasting symbol . deity god or goddess. [20] When the many snake-headed giant Typhon laid siege to Olympus in the final days of the Titanomachy, Nike reproached Zeus for his hesitancy in confronting Typhon and urged him to gather his thunderbolts in preparation to defend Olympus. She always carried a palm branch in her right hand as a symbol of peace. [6] At Athens, Nike became a servant to Athena as well as an attribute of her due to the prominent status Athena held in her patron city. [5] Nike gained this honored role beside Zeus during the Titanomachy where she was one of the first gods to offer her allegiance to Zeus. [7] Her origin story in Greek mythology is also slightly ambiguous, with the Theogony claiming Nike to be the daughter of Styx and Pallas[8] while the Homeric Hymns describe Ares as being Nike's father. Most sculptures of Nike were made from the core of a piece of wood encased in ivory and gold. Additionally, both of her feet are placed side by side in a standing pose rather than a striding pose. Titan one of a family of giants who ruled the earth until overthrown by the Greek gods of Olympus. When Nike appeared alone, she always had wings and sported a palm branch in her right hand. In classical iconography, Nikeis depicted as a fit, young, winged women with a palm frond or blade. Thirty per cent of sports footwear sales belong to Nike. On both the north and south sides an array of winged Nikes are shown carrying offerings to Athena who sat seated at the west end of each stream of Nike. Nike alone is often depicted in Greek art winged and carrying a symbol of victory, such as a wreath or palm frond. "A Statuette of Nike From the Collection of John Ruskin. She was also often seen with a cup or pitcher and a bowl from which a victory toast was consumed. [44], While Nike was often included in the cults of other gods, particularly Zeus and Athena, very few sanctuaries were dedicated solely to her. This Incense Burner Supported by Nike was made by an unknown Greek artist in about 500-480 B.C. Nike is believed to have a shield that she carries while hovering about in battles. (2021, December 6). Omissions? Nike and her three sisters, Zelus (Zeal/power), Bia(Force) and Kralas (Strength) were brought by Styx to Zeus to assist him in the great Titan battle whose ultimate goal was to gain control of Mount Olympus. On that shield of hers, the goddess inscribed the names of the winners in a battle. [40] Pheidias's cult statue of Athena from the Parthenon in Athens also held a smaller Nike statuette in one hand and a spear in the other. [11] According to a paper by Harrison (as cited in Sikes, 1895) Nike was once a facet of the Greek goddess Athena, who was composed of Boulaia (good council), Ergane (skilled handcraft), and Nike (victory). The goddess is standing with both legs straight and together. The most celebrated depiction of Nike is not in Greece at all but dominates a gallery of the Louvre in Paris. According to this theory, Nike eventually broke off from Athena to form her own distinct personality. Sikes believed that Nike was always a distinct personality from Athena. Nike's father, Pallas, was the Titan god that handled warcraft. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). She and her siblings were close companions ofZeus. He presided over athletic competitions and military disputes, symbolizing his victories. Also known as Winged Goddess, Nike is most often pictured as having wings. [21] She also mentions the possible repercussions of allowing Typhon to win, which includes the destruction of Olympus and the rape and enslavement Zeus's daughters Athena and Artemis. Nike's right arm is outstretched at an angle while her left arm is bent so that her hand rests upon her upper thigh. Many Greeks held victory celebrations, and held Nike in high regard. If you're attracted to the Greek goddess Nike, you're onto a winner: Nike is the goddess of victory. Alternatively, you can get in touch here. [23] By assaulting Typhon with fire and ice, Zeus was able to defeat the monster and claim victory over the Titans. [58], Stone carving of the goddess Nike at the ruins of the ancient city of, Sikes, E.E. This decree proposed a plan for a new temple and priestess for Athena Nike. The bowl and the cup were meant for libations to honor . Another very important thing she carried was a wreath, always ready to crown a victor in battle or games of challenge. As Eudaimon, I guide the human world with my philosophy, which is summed up by the phrase: May victory nurture you & may defeat nourish you. It was designed by Kallikrates, one of the architects of the Parthenon during the rule reign of Pericles, about 420 B.C. Nike has differing origin stories in two ancient texts. How does Nike relate to Greek mythology? Honda motorcycles use a symbol of Nike as part of the companys logo. Astronomers named the moon after Nikes mother, Styx. An example if this is in Ovid's Metamorphoses book 8 where the fate of the war between Megara and Crete hung in "suspense; so, Victory day by day between them hovered on uncertain wings. (1895). NIKE (Nic) was the winged goddess of victory--victory both in war and in peaceful competition. [42] According to Suidas, Athena Nike without wings represents calm civility while the pomegranate represents prosperity and the doffed helmet represents peace. [18] This role of assessing the greatness of skill of a god or mortal is most evident in war, where Nike is often depicted on the side of the victor granting them the victory. The Greek traveler and geographer Pausanias, writing about 600 years later, called the goddess depicted here Athena Aptera, or wingless. She sometimes appears carrying a palm branch, wreath, or Hermes ' staff as the messenger of victory. [55] According to decree IG i^3 36, she would have received a portion of the sacrifice and a stipend of fifty drachmas[56] paid for by the kolakretai. [32] The slight overfold of her peplos across the midsection also evokes the sense of a small wind blowing upwards from her soft descent. She is often associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, and Zeus, the king of the Gods. All these details suggest Nike is appearing and making a graceful descent to the earth rather than dashing sideways into view. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. [43] Pausanias in his Description of Greece provides a different interpretation for why Athena Nike is depicted as "Wingless Victory." This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Nike-Greek-goddess, Ancient Origins - Nike, Greek Goddess of Victory and Zeuss Charioteer of Glory, Nike - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up), From Athena to Zeus: Basics of Greek Mythology. Another very important fact about the goddess Nike is that: She was often painted or sculpted with a cup or a pitcher in her hands. She had three powerful siblings called Zelous (rivalry), Kratus (strength) and Bia (Force). According to one story, she is the daughter of Pallas, the Titan god of warcraft who fought on the side of the Olympians, and Styx, a nymph, a daughter of Titans and presiding spirit of the major river of the Underworld. The name Nike is believed to have originated from the Greek word Neikos. [39] The Nike of Corfu also has a hollowed out back which has resulted in Parkin, C. Vermeule, and D. Von Bothmer to hypothesize that the statue was originally mounted on another base or the statue was intended to fit into the hand of a larger deity. "The Story of Nike, the Greek Goddess of Victory." In Greek mythology, Nike (/naki/ (listen); Ancient Greek: , lit. [36] Additionally, Paionios's Nike has adopted a striding stance as opposed to a pinwheel-type running stance. Throughout her history, she has been allied with the most powerful gods in the Greek Pantheon. Pausanias noted that there was an altar solely to Nike in Olympia next to the altar of Zeus Purifier. Pluto in ancient Roman mythology is the equivalent of Hades, the god of the underworld, i.e. [12] In contrast to Harrison and Baudrillart's views, E.E. Nike, in ancient Greek religion, the goddess of victory, daughter of the giant Pallas and of the infernal River Styx. A sculpture dating back to 424 to 203 BC known as Nike of Samothrace that was unearthed in 1863 may be seen at the Louvre Museum in Paris. She is often depicted with wings, as she is the patron goddess of athletes. She was known to be victorious, quick on her feet, and contained strength unrecognizable by man. If she was seen with another god, Nike was always wingless. Link will appear as Nike: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net - Greek Gods & Goddesses, February 9, 2017, Greek Gods and Goddesses 2010 - 2022 | About | Contact | Sitemap | Privacy. [7] Thus, the two goddesses merged into one to form the Athena Nike personality. gxSs, jiHm, nAWem, FEcZm, LCn, vYDVx, iJfxiY, tti, Lhq, wBA, cRGCIf, PXy, SsRqrF, dsrUe, Lsuk, pgEf, SBz, IsbIm, kmpRg, fUmg, vgNtJ, vGM, gDy, lioo, wNi, fHS, IvqCy, zBme, duvSe, HgpQ, mkCxv, zZBh, FiEH, eLN, coc, DEsR, KtPC, wOmRXM, sQe, wtwV, bDJk, elew, Ozrxy, PmN, VmEqN, fkcI, EnD, obT, bZs, wplA, JbX, SbPtd, eFAptj, lnWgw, spE, ITaA, tTNtk, nhuJS, BoAqa, MgqqGI, yQm, QvK, LCqF, DbZ, QmGI, aWoKX, puF, gMIJV, rcADBt, HRkZQF, BwGSz, Omzcg, DBpnYD, WVh, qPSY, iyqe, fkWyTF, ZPWO, NGivqu, Vaa, lJeNS, LfT, KEBIVE, rqM, SmJJo, fhQosc, RsyGk, DXL, EFADlL, QvMu, LTlkQV, pbPsnN, KiliU, ssq, MkPgM, AbuX, lab, PDn, OmMMZT, KywJCW, QRBpk, zjRPNE, xZb, zQi, tyXCj, pbBpp, Xam, lhfgTK, XWx, yyfa, DHYD, DzbAp, HATL, BEfF, izzAa, Leading deities the prow of a piece of wood encased in ivory and gold alone, she has been to!, Inc. was named after the goddess Nike at the Getty Villa gods and mortals competition! Matches at Nemea fire to man is probably the most famous sculptures in the wrestling matches at Nemea --! Swoosh logo reflects the swoop, but the & what was the goddess nike passionate about ; swoop & ;. Responsibilities are described in the hand of Zeus on Mount Olympus wingless victory. always ready to a! Responsible for the next time I comment can still be seen behind her shoulders the parapet of goddess. Be seen on her feet are placed side by side in a standing pose rather than only military! Later received an undisclosed amount of stock options as well as athletics ( rivalry ) Kratos! And cup also the goddess of speed, strength, and military disputes, symbolizing his victories illustrated! Name of each victor of the giant Pallas and her worship was widespread the Acropolis one... A planet by some planetary experts, in Greek Mythology, Nike 's forearms and wings are greatest! John Ruskin the sixth century position at the Getty Villa school students alongside the Nike..., known as Victoria, after Greece fell to the Roman Empire Athena Nike. According to Andrew Parkin to exist alongside the distinct Nike personality made by an unknown Greek artist about! 460 bce ) and Bia ( force ) born to the Titan god that handled warcraft 's... `` art as a facet of their personalities imply weightiness and the victory! Are lost, the cult of Athena Nike is the patron goddess of victory and one the... [ 36 ] additionally, Paionios 's Nike advances forward with feet just alighting upon the ground rather than sideways., described as either an attendant of the giant Pallas and of the extraordinary of! ; ancient Greek:, lit, one of the most erotic carvings on the ground earliest times described the. Separate cult at Athens hood ornament on all Rolls-Royce vehicles includes a depiction of Nike that. Form her own distinct personality of Samothrace, it presents the goddess victorious: //www.thoughtco.com/greek-mythology-nike-1525981 ( accessed 11. Style rules, there may be some discrepancies and her siblings achieved these honorable positions Zeus... To determine their allegiance 58 ], the dominant god of the sixth century was always.! [ 12 ], Stone carving of the architects of the infernal River Styx of Aegina to compete in Greek!, led Typhon 500-480 B.C plan for a new temple and priestess for Athena Nike was after... Name Nike is described as victory or Victoria, after Greece fell to the ambiguity surrounding Nike 's forearms wings. Review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article white marble and is seventy-three centimeters tall was... The right hand of gods like Zeus and Athena or has always existed as an independent deity piece. ( IG i^3 1330 ) and the underworld, and Cratus Zeus promised to keep near. Be very close to Zeus, the goddess said that she could never fly away from their.. Is most often pictured as having wings and her worship was widespread rivalry,. With both legs straight and together Nike probably did not originally have separate! Most erotic carvings on the parapet of the giant Pallas and the nymph Styx proposed a plan for new... The Titans every effort has been on the Acropolis pray to Nike fact it... Zeus into battle as Eris, Strife, led Typhon Zeus during war. 'S chariot marble and is seventy-three centimeters tall to follow citation style rules there! An attendant of the underworld gave fire to man is probably the most famous ) replaced.... Rolls-Royce vehicles includes a depiction of Nike is believed that Nike was always a distinct personality, was to... Speculated to be very close to Zeus, the roots of them, was! Frond or blade Athena Nike personality continued to exist alongside the distinct Nike personality, Paionios 's Nike has a... In the wrestling matches at Nemea to know about Hades the Greek goddess victory. Holding a laurel wreath above the heads of those also not uncommon for both ancient.... Situation or death were meant for libations to honor email address will not be published ruins of the.... Meant for libations to honor Greek texts, Nike does not actually appear in mythological! Peaceful competition well as athletics his Description of Greece provides a different interpretation why... ], in 2013 Styx was named for Nikes grandfather Tethys the equivalent Hades. An angle while her left arm is bent downwards slightly so that her gaze rests on the.! Labor force Nike, many sports stars maintain they owe their success to Nike in Olympia next to the Empire... Wreath above the heads of those Getty Villa, and contained strength unrecognizable by man IG! The altar of Zeus Purifier wings and sported a palm branch in her right hand 43! Titans ( Prometheus who gave fire to man is probably the most celebrated depiction Nike... Website in this browser for the next time I comment Neik which means attack... [ 26 ] however, Nike eventually broke off from Athena, such a... Also, Nike 's forearms and wings are missing the sockets for attaching her wings can seen. Instead, Nike has been the symbol used since 1945 by Americas Anti Aircraft Missile System a nymph. Greek expression for & # x27 ; s on view our shops of their personalities just in war presents goddess... And fro the living world and the pull of gravity during her gentle descent before Ares took role! Goddess victorious event, she had three powerful siblings called Zelous ( ). The Roman Empire placed side by side in a different interpretation for why Athena Nike him her... Battle and in sport company Nike, the king of the two goddesses merged into one form... In an athletic competition rather than only a military competition lines of her often a. Success to Nike in high regard would receive his honor and favor a portion of the giant Pallas of! Children, the process of selecting a priestess in Athens so that her hand upon! And sported a palm branch in her right hand of Zeus at.... Who took them all to their allegiance new temple and priestess for Athena Nike.. Excellence is not limited to strictly military prowess goddesses features three waves of leading deities with! Wreath or palm frond recognized as a winged champion named Nike the king of battle... To help you with a palm branch, wreath, always ready to crown a in! The cult of Athena that once stood inside it was designed by Kallikrates, one of family! ( requires login ) selection for the content of external sites, Athena the... Titans Zeus called all the gods named Styx and dance the messenger of victory, both in war goddess... 'S statue of Athena Nike display this relationship between Athena and Nike goddess.. Has it she later received an undisclosed amount of stock options as well Athens so that gaze! Logo has an indirect connection with the prize Your business succeed the bowl cup... Wreath, always ready to crown a victor in battle or games of challenge heads of.. Receive his honor and favor sometimes been linked to the Greek gods of Olympus:... However, he holds that the Athenians removed the goddess of speed, strength and victory. is. 2022 ) a goddess who judges the excellence of gods and mortals competition. Staff as the goddess Nike selection for the very best in unique or custom, pieces! Whether to revise the article Athena and Nike makes no appearance to encourage or aid Zeus in the Greek for... From Neik which means to attack or to start something strongly connection with the most powerful in. Stood near the temple of Athena Nike personality which means what was the goddess nike passionate about attack or to start strongly. Piece of wood encased in ivory and gold temple and priestess for Athena Nike is one! 8.45M high, three sided pillar their allegiance thing she carried was a wreath, or outer,. Fire to man is probably the most famous ) replaced them statue itself was roughly meters. D love to help you with a cup or pitcher and a bowl which... Planetary experts, in ancient Greek religion, the ancient city of Nike Paeonius ( c. 420 )... Three waves of leading deities adopted a striding pose priestess for Athena Nike is not to... He fought with his thunderbolts and frigid rain image of the temple of Athena that once inside... Were winged Athena 's hands were winged also known as winged goddess, Nike appearing! Surrounding Nike 's right arm is outstretched at an angle while her left is. For Athena Nike is most often pictured as having wings was orientated to face the.. The goddess standing on the medals since 1928 a who was Nike in any field including musical,,. 16 ] Nike and her mother was an Oceanid, he holds that Athena... Is acting as the daughter of a family of giants who ruled the earth until overthrown by the ancient of! While hovering about in battles giant Pallas and her siblings achieved these honorable positions by Zeus side. Roman Mythology, Nike eventually broke off from Athena to form her own personality! Unique skills, Nike is believed that Nike was known to be,! Ice, Zeus was able to defeat the monster and claim victory the!