| The Goddess
In the fertile cresent valley people worshipped the Goddess. During this period, everyone was as equals. Possibly a woman was selected out as the head of commerce and person to recieve gifts, but she did not have the power of male rulers. Settlements were in open areas good for farming. The holy places were natural sanctuaries, often by caves, as mother earth gave birth to life. The arts including the art of medicine was practiced. Games were established to consume the energy that might otherwise be used in harmful competion. That is competing in itself isn't harmful, but violence is, so games were invented to keep the competion reasonably safe, and maintain harmony among the people.
When people who worship male Gods invaded, life was radically changed. People moved to easily defended places, and fortified themselves. They divided into farmers who had to support warriors, administrators, and religious leaders. They built huge temples and government buildings as shows of power. Bigger than life statues if men and gods appear. Art changes from scenes of nature to scenes of war.
On another thread I have been speaking of the struggles of poorly paid women who perform the valuable service of caring for others. I know very well, becoming an engineer and working for the war department, pays much better. I think our values are messed up and that it is self righteous to look down on people who are less fortunate.
Democracy is about equality and Athena is the Goddess of the Liberty, Justice and the Defense of those who stand for these values. |