Nike is the Greek goddess of victory. The winged daughter of the giant Pallas and the river Styx, she is a fierce and focused river goddess, known for her ability to sprint to the finish and celebrate victory. She is famous for success in war and battle but was said to deliver victory in all forms of competition and accomplishment. Considered the divine messenger who brings the coveted laurel wreath to victors, Nike is the goddess the ancients prayed to when they competed in any forum. In all sorts of human undertakings, such as culture and athletics, Nike came to be recognized as a mediator of success between gods and humans; she was an important deity at the Olympics. Although she was at one time indistinguishable from Pallas Athena, also a dispenser of victory who will not abide defeat, Nike became known as a separate entity that still served as a cheerleader and support to the goddess of war.
Very little has been written about Nike's history or personality, yet she abounds in ancient images. Both Zeus and Athena are often seen carrying small figures of Nike, indicating she is an important aspect of their success. Some believe she is Athena with wings, but when they are pictured together, Nike is wingless. When depicted alone, she is a winged, barefoot young goddess in a flowing tunic. She often carries a palm branch, wreath, or shield of victory, and sometimes a cup, jug, and incense burner. In the famous Nike of Samothrace in the Louvre, she is a headless presence, yet still fluid.
She can be seen in many forms in New York, in statues, monuments, and even way up on the top of buildings. Sometimes she is called by her other name, Victory. And she is also known as Renown. Her ancient image was adapted into more modern statues and it is believed she is also the model for certain winged angels and beings.
- Laurie Sue Brockway