FINAL

Question 1

Muthos/Spoken word

Answer 1

Muthos means a spoken word or utterance referring to traditional narratives or tales. In Greek culture, muthos is central to the transmission of cultural values and beliefs through oral storytelling. It represents the importance of spoken word in shaping and sharing collective memory. Muthos is an evident concept in Greek epics like The Iliad and The Odyssey, where spoken word preserves heroic tales and societal values.

Question 2

Theogony

Answer 2

Theogony refers to the birth or origin of the gods. It often denotes a genealogy of the gods. Theogony explains the origins of divine beings and establishes the power hierarchy among gods, giving context to the divine interactions in myths. Hesoid’s Theogony is a prime example, detailing the lineage of gods and cosmic order, from primordial entities to the Olympian gods.

Question 3

Cosmogony

Answer 3

Cosmology is the birth or origin of the cosmos or universe, providing explanation for the creation and structure of the world. It grounds Greek mythology in a cosmic framework. In Theology, Hedoid describes the formation of the cosmos from Chaos, establishing the universe order through divine succession.

Question 4

Titanomachy

Answer 4

Titanomachy is the battle between the Titans and the Olympians. This battle signifies the overthrow of the older generation of deities by the Olympian gods, establishing Zeus and his kin as the rulers of the cosmos, symbolizing a new world order.

Question 5

Typhonomachy

Answer 5

Typhonomachy is the battle between Zeus and Typhon. The battle solidifies Zeus’ position as the supreme god and protector of cosmic order. In myth, Typhon challenges Zeus but is ultimately defeated and imprisoned.

Question 6

Omphalos

Answer 6

Omphalos means ‘navel’ and refers to a sacred stone marking the earth’s center, symbolizing centrality and origin. The omphalos represent a spiritual and physical center, connecting the divine world to the mortal world. The stone at Delphi, known as the omphalos, was believed to make the earth’s center and held religious significance as a site of prophecy.

Question 7

Aetiology

Answer 7

Aetiology is a myth explaining the cause of a custom or phenomena. Aetiological myths provide cultural explanations for rituals, natural phenomena, and societal practices, connecting myth to daily life. The story of Prometheus and the origin of fire serves as an aetiological myth as it explains the use of fire by humans.

Question 8

Mythoi

Answer 8

Mythoi refers to traditional stories or tales that convey cultural va;ues and truths. Mythoi serves as a way to pass down cultural values, norms, and shared history through generations. The Iliad and Odyssey are examples of mythoi as they recount tales of heroism, fate and the gods role in human life

Question 9

Speech Act

Answer 9

A speech act is an utterance that is also considered an action. In Greek ritual and myth, speech acts are integral, as spoken words in prayers or convocation function as performative actions, calling upon gods or enacting rituals. An example of a speech act is prayer, where spoken words invoke divine presence and ask for blessings or protection. Achilles’ prayer to Zeus for the protection of Patroclus is a spoken appeal that seeks divine intervention.

Question 10

Oikos

Answer 10

Oikos means ‘household’ and represents the fundamental social, economic, and familial unit in Greek society. The oikos is central to Greek identity as it connects family obligations and societal stability and honor. In Antigone, Antigone’s loyalty to her oikos (her family) is central to her defiance against Kreon, who represents the laws of the polis (city-state)

Question 11

Noos

Answer 11

Noos means ‘mind’ or ‘spirit’ often associated with wisdom, perception, and understanding. In Greek mythology, noos is important as it represents a hero’s inner strength and awareness, contributing to their decision-making and adaptability. In The Odyssey, Odysseus’ noos is highlighted through his cunning and strategic thinking, such as when he devises the plan to escape Polyphemus.

Question 12

Hero

Answer 12

In Greek mythology a hero is often a mortal of exceptional strength or courage, sometimes with divine ancestry who performs great deeds. Heroes serve as models of Greek cultural values, pursuing kleos (glory) and facing challenges that test their virtue and bravery. Achilles in The Iliad exemplifies a gero, as he seeks kleos through his prowess in battle, despite knowing it may lead to his death.

Question 13

Kleos

Answer 13

Kleos means ‘fame’ or ‘glory’ particularly the immortal fame achieved through heroic deeds and remembered in song. Kleos is a central motivation for Greek heroes, as it provides a form of immortality through memory and honor. Achilles chooses a short life filled with kleos over a long, unremarkable life, showing the Greek hero’s prioritization of glory.

Question 14

Mortality

Answer 14

Mortality is the state of being mortal, bound by death, which distinguishes humans and heroes from gods. Greek heroes are defined by their mortality and their desire to achieve kleos is, in part, a response to their awareness of their limited lifespan. In The Iliad, Achilles heroism is underscored by his acceptance of mortality, as he knows his death is inevitable if he continues to fight.

Question 15

Aidôs

Answer 15

Aidos means ‘shame’ or ‘self respect’ reflecting an internal sense of honor or decency. Aidos acts as a moral compass, guiding individuals to behave in ways that honor themselves and their family,even at personal cost. Hector in The Iliad experiences Aidos as he feels compelled to face Achilles, even though he knows it may lead to his death, to protect his reputation and family honor.

Question 16

Timê

Answer 16

Time refers to ‘honor’ or ‘value’ specifically the recognition of a person’s worth by society. In Greek culture, time is an essential measure of a hero’s status, as it reflects the respect and rewards granted to them for their deeds. Heroes receive time in the form of gifts, praise, and public recognition. Achilles dispute with Agamemnon in The Iliad is sparked by a perceived loss of time when his prize, Briseis, is taken from him

Question 17

Aretê

Answer 17

Arete means ‘excellence’ or ‘virtue’ referring to a person’s highest potential especially in bravery and skill. Arete is the ideal a hero strives to embody, achieving excellence in various aspects of life and especially in warfare or leadership. Achilles embodies arete in his combat skills and courage, serving as a model of heroic excellence in The Iliad.

Question 18

Geras

Answer 18

Geras means reward, gift, or honor, often given to heroes in recognition of their achievements. Geras symbolizes respect and social status in Greek culture, reinforcing the heroes honor and place within society. In The Iliad the taking of achilles prize (geras) by agamemnon is seen as a severe insult, as it diminishes Achilles honor.

Question 19

Xenia

Answer 19

Xenia is the sacred code of hospitality between host and guest involving mutual respect and obligations. Xenia was a fundame,tk social and religious practice in Greek society, promoting peace and alliances among different communities. In The Odyssey, Odysseus receives hospitality from various hosts, including the Phaeacians, who honor the rules of xenia by aiding him in his journey home.

Question 20

Nostos

Answer 20

Nostos means safe return or homecoming, often referring to a hero’s journey back home after adventures or war. Nostos represents the hero’s desire to return to their homeland and reintegrate into their society, embodying the balance between adventure and domestic stability. Odysseus’ journey in the Odyssey is a quest for nostos, as he struggles to return to Ithaca and reclaim his place as king and husband.

Question 21

Myth

Answer 21

A traditional story or narrative that conveys cultural beliefs, often involving gods, heroes, and explaining natural or social phenomena. Myths serve as a way for Greek society to communicate values. History, and understanding of the world, blending entertainment with moral and cultural lessons. The myth of Prometheus bringing fire to humanity explains human innovation and the consequence of defying divine authority.

Question 22

Philia/Philoi (plural)

Answer 22

Philia refers to friendship or love and denotes a close bond, often between family members, friends, or comrades. Philia represents loyalty, support, and care within Greek social structures, emphasizing the importance of strong personal friendships. In Antigone, Antigone’s devotion to her brother Polyneikes exemplifies philia as she defies Kreon to honor her familial bond through burial rites.

Question 23

Kedos

Answer 23

Kedos means care or concern for others, particularly those who are close or beloved. Kedos underscores the moral responsibility individuals have for their loved ones, even beyond life, as seen in the context of burial and remembrance. Antigone’s actions towards Polyneikes body can be seen as an act of kedos, as she feels compelled to care for him even in death.

Question 24

Polytropos

Answer 24

Polytropos means ‘of many ways’ or ‘much-turning,’ describing a person with adaptability and cleverness. This trait, particularly associated with Odysseus, highlights the value placed on wit resourcefulness, and versatility in Greek heroes. In The Odyssey, Odysseus is described as polytropos for his cunning intelligence, which helps him overcome various obstacles, like escaping from Polyphemus.

Question 25

Metis

Answer 25

Metis is cunning intelligence or craftiness, the ability to think strategically and outwit others. Metis is valued in Greek culture as it allows heroes to survive and succeed through intellect rather than brute force. Odysseus demonstrates metis when he tricks Polyphemus by calling himself as “nobody,” allowing him and his men to escape undetected.

Question 26

Dike

Answer 26

Dike means justice or correct behavior, often connected to fairness and societal order. Dike represents the Greek ideal of maintaining harmony and balance within society, contrasting with acts that disrupt order. In Antigone, Kreon believes he is upholding dike by enforcing laws against burying traitors, although it clashes with divine justice.

Question 27

Atasthalia

Answer 27

Atasthalia is recklessness or disobedience, especially in a disregard for rules or social norms. Acts of atasthalia often lead to punishment or misfortune in Greek myths, showing the consequences of defying societal or divine laws. In The Odyssey, Odysseus’ men exhibit atasthalia when they eat the cattle of Helios, resulting in their deaths as divine retribution

Question 28

Tisis

Answer 28

Tisis is retributive justice or vengeance, the concept of receiving consequences or repayment for one’s actions. Tisis is a fundamental theme in Greek mythology, where justice is often served through reciprocal punishment or reward. In Antigone, Kreon experiences tisis when his refusal to bury Polyneikes leads to personal tragedy, including the deaths of his son Haimon and wide Eurydike.

Question 29

Kharis

Answer 29

Kharis refers to grace or favor, often representing gratitude and the reciprocal goodwill between individuals or between mortals and gods. Kharis highlights the Greek value of reciprocity where favors and kindness are repaid, reinforcing social bonds. In Greek rituals offerings to the gods are acts of kharis showing gratitude and respect in hopes of receiving blessings in return. An example of Kharis is shown in the Phaeacians’ treatment of Odysseus as they provide him with food, shelter, and clothing.

Question 30

Ekthros

Answer 30

Ekthros means enemy or hated on, denoting a person or entity that is in opposition to someone. In Greek mythology and drama identifying someone as ekthros solidifies them as an adversary, often leading to conflict and highlighting themes of loyalty versus enmity. In Antigone, Kreon views Polyneikes as ekthros for betraying Thebes, justifying his refusal to allow polyneikes a proper burial.

Question 31

Drama

Answer 31

Drama from the Greek word drama meaning ‘action,’ is a form of storytelling presented through performance, often involving dialogue and conflict. Greek drama was closely tied to religious and civic life exploring themes of fate, justice and the human condition through structured performance particularly in tragedies and comedies.

Question 32

Tragedy

Answer 32

Tragedy from tragos (goat) and ode (song) is a dramatic genre that presents serious themes and typically ends in disaster for the protagonist. Tragedy in Greek culture was seen as a way to evoke katharsis (emotional purification) in the audience, dealing with themes of fate, hubris, and moral dilemmas. Antigone is a tragedy, as it centers on Antigone’s defiance of Kreons laws, leading to a series of deaths and kreons remorse and isolation.

Question 33

Miasma

Answer 33

Miasma means ritual pollution or stain that results from impious acts, bringing misfortune upon individuals or communities. Miasma is a crucial concept in Greek religion and mythology as it signifies the need for purification to restore harmony and prevent further calamities. In Antigone, the unburied body of Polyneikes causes miasma, endangering Thebes and leading Tiresias to warn Kreon about the consequences of his actions.

Question 34

Polis

Answer 34

Polis means city state, the central political, social and religious structure in ancient Greek society. The polis represented teh collective identity and governance of a community with citizens upholding laws and customs to maintain order and cohesion. In Antigone, Kreon represents the authority of the polis by enforcing laws that prioritize state security over individual desire, even those of family.

Question 35

Oikos

Answer 35

Oikos refers to the household encompassing family property and domestic responsibilities. The oikos was the foundational unit of Greek society, balancing personal loyalty and familial duties within the larger framework of the polis. In Antigone, the conflict between Antigone’s loyalty to her oikos(her family) and Kreons allegiance to the polis (state) is a central theme, reflecting tensions between family and civic duty.

Question 36

Stichomythia

Answer 36

Stichomythia is a dramatic technique of rapid alternating lines between characters often used in moments of high tension. This form of dialogue heightens emotional intensity and highlights conflicting viewpoints driving the drama forward. In Antigone, the stichomythia between Kreon and Haimon intensifies their disagreement, as Haimon argues for Antigone’s release and Kreon refuses, escalating the conflict.

Question 37

Peripeteia

Answer 37

Peripeteia is a reversal or turning point in a tragedy where the protagonist’s fortune shifts often from good to bad. Described by Aristotle as essential to tragedy, peripeteia marks the tragic shift that leads to the protagonist’s downfall. In Antigone, Kreon’s peripeteia occurs after Tiresias’ warning, when Kreon decides too late to free Antigone, setting off the tragic events that lead to the deaths of his son and wife.

Question 38

Invocation

Answer 38

Invocation is a type of prayer or address where a deity is specifically called upon often to ask for inspiration or support. Invocations connect the mortal and divine realms as calling upon a god establishes a personal connection and invites divine influence in human affairs. At the start of the Odyssey the poet invokes the Muse for inspiration to tell Odysseues’ story, a common practice in epic poetry.

Question 39

Epiphany Scene

Answer 39

An epiphany scene is a moment in a myth or drama when a god reveals their divine nature to mortals often accompanied by awe or fear. Epiphanies emphasize the god’s power and presence, reminding mortals of the divine influence in their lives and reinforcing the authority of teh gods. In the Homeric Hymn to Demeter, Demeter reveals her divine form to the people of Eleusis after they interrupt her ritual, demonstrating her power and demanding respect.

Question 40

Fraticide

Answer 40

The act of killing one’s brother often represents familial conflict or the cost of ambition. Fratcide in mythology frequently highlights the tension between personal relationships and the pursuit of power or destiny. In the story of Romulus and Remus, Romulus kills his brother Remus during a dispute about the founding of Rome. This act establishes Romulus as the founder but reflects the sacrifices and moral dilemmas inherent in leadership.

Question 41

Piety/Pietas

Answer 41

A roman virtue meaning devotion or duty to the gods, family, and the state. Peitas is a central value in Roman culture, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling responsibilities over personal desires. Aeneas embodies pietas in the Aeneid by prioritizing his divine mission to establish Rome, even when it means leaving Dido and enduring great personal suffering.

Question 42

Numina/Numen

Answer 42

Divine spirits or powers associated with specific functions, places, or concepts in Roman religion. The numina represent the pervasive presence of the divine in everyday life, with each aspect of the natural and social world under divine influence.

Question 43

Sacrifium

Answer 43

The ritual of making an offering to the gods ,typically involving animals, plants, or other valuable goods. Sacrificium was central to Roman religion, reinforcing the reciprocal relationship between mortals and gods. During a Roman sacrificial ritual, the burning of animal bones and fat was offered to the gods, reflecting the humans’ recognition of divine authority while keeping the edible portions for themselves.

Question 44

Augury

Answer 44

The practice of interpreting omens, especially through the behavior of birds, to discern the will of the gods. Augury was a critical method of decision-making in Roman society, ensuring that actions were aligned with divine approval. Romulus and Remus used surgery to determine who would find Rome. with romulus interpreting the fight of more birds as a sign of his divine favour.

Question 45

Foundation Myths

Answer 45

Stories explaining the origins of cities, societies, or civilizations, often blending historical and mythological elements. Foundation myths legitimize the existence and power of a society, tying its origins to divine will and heroic figures, The story of Romulus and Remus serves as the foundational myth of Rome, emphasizing themes of divine and destined leadership.

Question 46

Pax Romana

Answer 46

The “Roman Peace”, a period of stability and prosperity throughout the Roman Empire under Augustus Caesar. The Pax Romana symbolizes the culmination of Romes’ destiny. Reflecting the ideals of order, governance, and unity achieved through conquest and leadership. The Aenid foreshadows the Pax Romana by depicting Aeneas journey to establish Rpme as divinely ordained, ensuring peace and prosperity for future generations.

Question 47

Golden Bough

Answer 47

A sacred branch that Aeneas must retrieve to enter the Underworld in the Aeneid. The Golden Bough symbolizes divine favour and readiness to undertake a journey into the realm of death, highlighting Aeneas’ role as a chosen hero. Aeneas successfully retrieves the Golden Bough with divine assistance granting him passage into the underworld to meet Anchises and learn of Rome’s destined greatness.

Question 48

Juno’s Wrath

Answer 48

The goddess Juno’s anger and hostility towards Aeneas and the Trojans. Stemming from her loyalty to Carthage and her grudge against Paris for not awarding her the golden apple. Juno’s wrath represents divine resistance to fate and the challenges that mortals must overcome to fulfil their destiny. In the Aeneid, Juno repeatedly attempts to thwart Aeneas such as stirring up a storm to destroy his fleet or inciting war in Italy.

Question 49

Gate of Ivory

Answer 49

One of the two gates of dreams in the Underworld associated with false or deceptive dreams in the Aeneid. The gate of Ivory highlights the ambiguity and unreliability of visions, suggesting that even divinely inspired dreams may be misleading. Aeneas exits the Underworld through the Gate of IVory, leaving readers to question the nature of the visions he experienced and the truth of Anchises revelations.