Athenian Attitude to Religion Flashcards
How did the Athenians demonstrate their serious attitude towards religion?
Through art, architecture, and numerous festivals throughout the year
Activities like sport and drama were central to the celebration of the gods.
What was significant about the Altar of the Twelve Gods in Athens?
It was dedicated to the Olympians and located at the heart of the agora
A sacrifice was made before every meeting of the assembly.
Who was Anaxagoras and what was his contribution to Athenian thought?
He was a philosopher who brought new ideas to Athens, particularly in astronomy
He claimed the sun was a red-hot stone and introduced the concept of ‘nous’.
What did Protagoras claim about knowledge of the gods?
He stated he was unable to know whether the gods exist or what they look like due to obstacles to knowledge
This reflects a form of agnosticism.
What did Herodotus say about Athenian beliefs?
He noted that Athenians believed in the truth of their religious practices and established sacred precincts when prosperous
Example: Sacred precinct of Pan under the Acropolis.
How does Thucydides’ view of religion differ from that of Herodotus?
Thucydides avoids mention of religion, focusing on scientific explanations instead
For instance, he describes the plague in a scientific manner.
What does Sophocles’ tragedy ‘Oedipus the King’ suggest about the relationship between plague and the divine?
It suggests that the plague was sent by Apollo and required consultation of his oracle
This contrasts with Thucydides’ scientific approach.
What criticism does Thucydides have regarding Nicias?
He criticized Nicias for his excessive reliance on divination, particularly regarding a lunar eclipse
This highlights superstitious thinking in Athenian society.
What do the attacks on Anaxagoras and charges against Socrates reveal about Athenian society?
They demonstrate the significant power and seriousness of religious matters in the state
This reflects the societal expectations surrounding religion.
In Aristophanes’ ‘Clouds’, what skeptical views about the gods are presented?
Socrates suggests Zeus no longer exists and that natural processes cause rain and thunder
The character Stepsiades eventually burns down the Thinkery.
What conflict does Euripides’ ‘Hippolytus’ illustrate regarding the gods?
It illustrates that deities do not interfere with each other’s domains, leading to tragic consequences
Hippolytus suffers despite being a good man due to his rejection of Aphrodite.
What traditional feature of Greek polytheism is highlighted in ‘Hippolytus’?
The personal interests of gods often lead to the suffering of mortals
Mortals can suffer disproportionately for their actions.
What duality existed in Athenian religious practice during this period?
There was both committed practice of traditional religion and questioning of its meaning
Archaeological remains suggest a powerful influence of religion.
What does the quality of temples constructed in Athens suggest about Athenian beliefs?
It suggests that belief in the gods was significant, as high-quality temples indicate strong religious commitment
The expenditure on temples reflects the importance of religion in Athenian society.
