Homer Flashcards
Who is Homer traditionally believed to have been?
An ancient Greek poet known for composing The Iliad and The Odyssey.
Around what time is Homer believed to have lived?
Around the 8th century BCE.
What are the two epic poems attributed to Homer?
The Iliad and The Odyssey.
What is the main theme of The Iliad?
The story is set during the Trojan War and focuses on the Greek hero Achilles.
What is the main theme of The Odyssey?
The tale follows Odysseus’ journey home after the Trojan War.
Where is Homer traditionally believed to have been born?
Possibly Smyrna (modern-day Izmir, Turkey) or the Greek island of Chios.
What meter did Homer use in his epics?
Dactylic hexameter.
What is the historical period during which Homer lived?
The Archaic period of Greece.
How were Homer’s works preserved and shared during his time?
Through oral tradition, before they were written down.
What is the Homeric Question?
A scholarly debate over whether Homer was a single individual or a collective group of poets.
What is the significance of Homer’s works in Western culture?
They laid the foundation for Western literature and influenced storytelling for millennia.
Which philosopher criticized Homer’s portrayal of the gods?
Plato.
What key values are reflected in Homer’s epics?
Honor, bravery, and the importance of fate.
How are Homer’s epics believed to have been performed?
They were likely recited aloud to audiences, accompanied by music.
What impact did Homer’s works have on Greek culture?
They helped unify the Greek-speaking world by providing shared cultural stories.
