In "The Mark of Athena," the city serves as a symbol of resilience against Gaea, the earth goddess who seeks to destroy human civilization. It seems almost sentient, aware of Percy's dreams and the impending threat posed by Gaea. The essence of the city stands firm, embodying a defiant spirit that challenges the goddess to attempt her destructive plans. It carries a message of steadfastness, reminiscent of an indomitable character in the story.

The comparison to Coach Hedge highlights this defiance, portraying the city as a towering figure of strength and resistance. While Coach Hedge represents a fierce protector, the city embodies a collective human will to endure. This juxtaposition reinforces the theme of human resilience against overwhelming challenges, emphasizing that even in the face of imminent destruction, there is a lingering hope and courage to stand against such forces.