Final answer:
Athena's role in The Eumenides symbolizes Athens's progression into a new era of civilization through the triumph of civilization over barbarism, the Athenians' military strength, and the offer of an olive tree as a symbol of prosperity and peace.
Step-by-step explanation:
In The Eumenides, Athena's role symbolizes Athens's progression into a new era of civilization in several ways.
- Athena represents the triumph of civilization over barbarism, as she is associated with rational thought and order.
- She is depicted as striding forward with her spear raised high, ready to strike, symbolizing the Athenians' military strength and power.
- Athena also offers an olive tree as a sign of prosperity and peace, contrasting with Poseidon's gift of a salty spring.