Why Poseidon Was on the Greek Side in the Trojan War

The Trojan War is one of the most legendary conflicts in history, depicted in Greek mythology as a grudge match between the Greeks and the Trojans. However, as intriguing as this narrative is, it raises the question: why was Poseidon, a primarily Greek god, on the side of the Greeks rather than the Trojans who were also considered Greeks?

Background of the Trojan War

The Trojan War is famously referenced in Homer's 'Iliad.' The war was fought over the abduction of Helen, a highly prized Greek captive. However, the war is also significant in the context of Greek and Trojan gods. While many Greek gods favored the Trojans out of personal ties or worship, Poseidon had a unique and complex relationship with the Trojans.

Poseidon and the Trojans

Other Greek gods, such as Poseidon, sided with the Greeks in the Trojan War. This alignment was not solely due to the Trojans' greater predisposition to worship these gods, but other factors as well. Poseidon, known for his strength and power, held a grudge against the King of Troy, Laomedon, which influenced his decision to back the Greeks.

A Punishment and a Grudge

During a fateful period where Poseidon, along with Hera, Athena, and others, tried to dethrone Zeus, they were all punished except Athena. She luckily avoided the worst by justifying her actions as a noble effort to free Zeus. Poseidon and Apollo, on the other hand, were turned into mortal slaves. Their task? Building the walls of Troy for the Trojan King, Laomedon. Despite completing the monumental task, Laomedon reneged on his promised reward, promising instead Zeus' approval for their return to godhood. Poseidon was deeply angered by this betrayal and Zeus forbade him from retaliating, despite Poseidon's desire to punish the Trojans.

Poseidon's Role and Revenge

Despite Zeus' injunction, Poseidon's overwhelming strength and desire for justice did not waver. When the Trojan War finally broke out, Poseidon sided with the Greeks to ensure justice was served and Laomedon faced the consequences of his broken promise. This is why he, as a Greek god, was on the side of the Achaeans and not the Trojans, whom he had every reason to despise.

While the actual historical basis for the Trojan War remains debated, with some historians suggesting that the conflict may have been based on a smaller-scale event rather than a ten-year siege, the mythological motivations of the gods, particularly Poseidon, remain compelling.

Keyword Focus: Poseidon, Trojan War, Greek Gods