Minerva (Roman Goddess of Wisdom)

MINERVA, the Roman goddess representing wisdom, identified with the Pallas-Athene of the Greeks. She is represented as the daughter of Jupiter, and was regarded the patroness of learning and of useful arts. Schools were under her especial care. To her were ascribed the invention of musical instruments and accomplishments in spinning, weavmg, sewing, and other household arts. She protected warriors in battle. Her aid was implored by physicians, painters, and teachers. In statuary she is commonly represented with a spindle, spool, and needle. The only three divinities worshiped in the Roman capital were Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, and in their joint honor the Judi maximi or great games, were held. The Minerval festivals occurred from the 19th to the 23d of March.