Minerva. Under the name of Minerva among the Romans and of Athena among the Greeks, ancient fiction personified and deified the idea of high intelligence and wisdom. She was a daughter of Jupiter, sprung from his head. The Greeks ascribed to this goddess the invention of many arts and sciences, which had a great influence on their civilization. She was regarded as inventress of the flute, of embroidery and spinning, the use of the olive, and various instruments of war; in short, of most works indicating superior intelligence or skill. Arachne's contest with her in working with the needle, and consequent despair and transformation are beautifully described by Ovid. The city of Athens was consecrated to Minerva, and boasted of receiving its name from her.
