Olympians-Reciprocal Relationship Between The Gods And Mortals

Question 1

the relationship between the gods and mortals was reciprocal

Answer 1

meaning that it was based on a principle of quid pro quo (‘something for something’), not on mutual love. Mortals gave the gods the honour
they wanted through ritual acts, such as sacrifices, libations and
votive offerings; in return, they hoped to receive divine blessings.
This was not a relationship between equals. Mortals may expect to
be punished if they neglect the gods. However, gods could choose to
ignore the supplications of mortals, if it suited them.

Question 2

examples of the reciprocal relationship. lliad 24

Answer 2

Zeus who marshals the clouds replied and said: ‘Hector was our favourite out of everyone in Ilium. He certainly was mine: he never failed to give me what I
like. My altar never lacked its share of generous offerings, libations of wine and the fat from burnt sacrifice, the honour gods have been granted as our
right.’

Question 3

examples of the reciprocal relationship. hesiod works and days

Answer 3

Appease the immortal gods with libations and burnt offerings, both when you go to bed and
when the holy light returns, so that they may have a gracious heart and spirit towards you, and you may buy other men’s land and not have someone else buy yours.

Question 4

examples of the reciprocal relationship. asclepius healing shrine at epidauros

Answer 4

Euphanes of Epidauros, a boy. He suffered from stone and slept here. In his dream the god stood
over him and said ‘What will you give me if I make you well?’ and he replied ‘Ten knucklebones.’ The god laughed and said he would put an end to the ill
ness. When day came, the boy departed in perfect health

Question 5

gods could ignore supplicants, lliad 6

Answer 5

Athene refuses to grant the Trojans’ prayer for Diomedes to be neutralised in the battle. Even though the women pray fervently and present offerings, Homer writes that Athene ‘shook her head’ in reply. This shows clearly the status and power differential
between gods and mortals.

Question 6

scholarly view, hitch

Answer 6

‘Because sacrifice recognises man’s subordination, man is able to ask for the favour of the gods. Thus
sacrifice is, for men, a means of communication; for gods, a means of rewarding behaviour that pleases
them. Underlying the hierarchy expressed in the sacrificial process, this concept of reciprocity, an exchange between gods and men … stands at the heart of ancient Greek cult mentality.’