°A mythological
shield associated with
Zeus and
Athena shown as a short cloak consisting of a
goatskin. The aegis of Athena is usually shown with a border of snakes and with the head of
Medusa in the center. The aegis is more an emblem of protection and power than an actual military shield.
°Protection, guidance. Usually used as
'under the aegis' because of its origin as protection of the shield of
Athena.