Poseidon

Parentage: Poseidon is the son of Cronus and Rhea, making him a sibling to Zeus, Hades, Hera, Demeter, and Hestia.

Domain of the Sea: Poseidon is best known as the god of the sea. He rules over the oceans, seas, and all marine life. He is often depicted with a trident, a three-pronged spear that symbolizes his dominion over the waters.

Earthquakes: In addition to his association with the sea, Poseidon is also the god of earthquakes. He is believed to have the power to cause earthquakes by striking the ground with his trident.

Horses and Chariots: Poseidon is often associated with horses. He is said to have created the first horse by striking the earth with his trident. Chariots pulled by divine horses are also sometimes attributed to him.

Role in Mythology: Poseidon is a central figure in various myths. Notable among them is his contest with Athena for the patronage of Athens. He struck the Acropolis with his trident, creating the first saltwater spring, but Athena's gift of the olive tree was deemed more valuable, and she became the city's patron.

Offspring: Poseidon had numerous offspring, often through unions with both divine and mortal beings. Among his notable children are Triton (a sea deity), Polyphemus (the Cyclops from the Odyssey), and Pegasus (the winged horse).

Rivalry with Athena: Poseidon had a longstanding rivalry with Athena, particularly in their roles as patrons of certain cities. Apart from their contest for Athens, Poseidon was considered the protector of seafaring activities and coastal cities.

Odysseus and the Odyssey: Poseidon is a key character in Homer's "Odyssey." He is portrayed as an antagonist to Odysseus due to the hero's blinding of Poseidon's son, the Cyclops Polyphemus.

Cults and Worship: Poseidon was worshipped throughout ancient Greece, with major cult centres in cities along the coast. His festivals, such as the Isthmian Games, were dedicated to him.

Symbols: Poseidon is often depicted with his trident and is associated with the dolphin, which is sometimes portrayed as his sacred animal.

Epithets: Poseidon has several epithets, including "Earth-shaker" and "Tamer of Horses," highlighting his dominion over the sea and his association with horses.

Roman Equivalent: In Roman mythology, Poseidon is identified with Neptune, the god of the sea.

Poseidon's influence extended over both the vast depths of the sea and the earth's stability, as seen in his connection to earthquakes. His character embodies the dual nature of the sea - capable of both serene tranquility and tempestuous power.