Aegis

Aigis ( ancient Greek: .. Αἰγίς, gene αἰγίδος, Latin aegis, idis, including German Aegis ) is a subject from Greek mythology. The word refers to a golden goat skin (sometimes also a shield and the like), which Zeus, but sometimes Athena or Apollo used to be looming thunderstorm. If the fur is shaken, it sends lightning, thunder and night.

Etymology

Etymologically derives from the ancient Greek term for aigis "goat", αἴξ (pronounced " aix " ), and means in the original sense " goatskin ". It is also possible a derivative of the verb αïσσω ( aïssō, trunk AIG ) " storm, rush ," which καταιγίς ( kataigís, "Cyclone " ) related. In the epic and the poetics Aigis therefore usually referred to the storm shield of Zeus, and the term is often equated with assault.

Mythology

According to legend, the skilful god Hephaestus has made ​​a large sign from a goatskin. This was decorated with oracle snakes and the fossilized head of the Gorgon Medusa in the center, which was a gift of Perseus. At first he was the chief god breastplate; later he was handed over to Athena. The Aigis was the symbol of divine power Athenes. Since it belongs inseparably to the rule, Homer transferred the Aigis in his poems to Zeus, who ruled from now with their help over the other gods. The shield could not even be destroyed by Zeus ' lightning. In addition, he should have had a crippling or petrifying effect on the opponent by the head of Medusa. In the Iliad, Apollo below the Trojans ahead, as they break through the wall to the ship bearing the Achaeans, and shakes the aegis, which puts the Achaeans in terror.

From this shield, the phrase is " under someone's aegis ( protection) are "

Uses of the term

• The shield is often used by the wise Athena and helped her in the battle for Troy, to protect themselves against their enemies.
• The priestesses of the Libyan Athena wearing the aegis, in the form of goatskin aprons.
• Today, the name occurs frequently in monitoring companies.
• AEGIS ( Airborne Early Warning Ground Environment Integration Segment ) is an electronic warning and fire control system on warships of the U.S. Navy.
• The term also lives in the masculine given name Giles on.