In
Greek mythology, a
little owl (
Athene noctua) traditionally represents or accompanies
Athena, the virgin goddess of wisdom, or
Minerva, her
syncretic incarnation in
Roman mythology. Because of such association, the bird — often referred to as the "
owl of Athena" or the "
owl of Minerva" — has been used as a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, perspicacity and erudition throughout the
Western world.