| Sumario: | Throughout Greek history, gods and goddesses assumed many diverse roles in different areas of the Mediterranean. The Greeks did not see the gods as being overly consumed with the actions of men, but they honoured the gods in hope of favour, and to divert divine anger. Because there was no defined dogma or creed within the Greek religion, this left individual people, groups or poleis to interpret what they believed to be correct behaviour. Citizens paid homage and tribute to patron gods in the form of cult worship and regular ritual activities and festivals funded by public contributions. Within the militaristic society of ancient Sparta, the Lacedaemonians also honoured their immortal patrons, hopeful that the gods would bestow favour on their endeavours. Considering the emphasis the polis placed on military defence and fraternal relationships, it seems curious that a patriarchal society such as Sparta might appoint female deities as high-ranking patrons. But indeed, two Olympians goddesses, Athena and Artemis, received significant attention from Sparta in the form of temple dedications, festivals, and ritualistic sacrifice. This study considers the relationship between the goddesses and the Spartan state. It examines the qualities possessed by Athena and Artemis, which might have appealed to the Lacedaemonians.
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