Aegis

Aegis

The Aegis is the name of a shield Zeus and Athena used. It is also a breastplate.

Myth

Creation

Perseus was told to kill Medusa by Polydectes. Because the gods showed favor on him, he was given Hades' Helm of Invisibility, Winged Sandals from Hermes, a magnificent sword made by Hephaestus, and a shield from Athena which would later become the Aegis. This shield is sometimes called a mirror and other times called a shield of bronze that was polished so much it reflected quite easily.

Perseus used this shield to look at Medusa's reflection so he wouldn't be turned to stone. He killed her right when she had birth, which weakened her. After this, he returned to Polydectes' kingdom.  He gave the king Medusa's head and he was turned to stone when he looked at it.  After this, he returned the Shield, Helm, and Sandals. Athena also asked for the head, and, not wanting to upset a goddess, gave it to her. She fastened it to the shield so that any of her enemies would be turned to stone.  She uses it every time she goes to battle.

Later Use

Zeus would use the shield on occasion, and would wear the head on his goatskin breastplates, so it can be considered the Aegis. The Aegis is anything with the Gorgon's head strapped on.

Apollo would take the Aegis with him to revive the wounded Hector.

Powers and Abilities

Along with being a very powerful shield, it radiates fear. It is finely polished, making it possible to look at it and see your reflection. It can also turn people to stone, at least in its early use. It is said when a god shakes it, thunder rolls, Mt. Ida becomes wrapped in clouds, and mortals cower in fear.