Pisistratus (c. 600–527 BCE)

Question 1

Who was Pisistratus?

Answer 1

Pisistratus was a ruler (tyrant) of Athens during the 6th century BCE who is known for his public works, promotion of the arts, and political cunning.

Question 2

What was Pisistratus’ relationship to Solon?

Answer 2

Pisistratus was a relative of Solon, the famous Athenian lawgiver.

Question 3

How did Pisistratus initially gain popularity in Athens?

Answer 3

Pisistratus gained popularity through his military successes, particularly in battles against Megara, and by being a charismatic leader.

Question 4

What were Pisistratus’ three major achievements?

Answer 4

Pisistratus’ three major achievements were centralizing power in Athens, initiating public works and cultural advancements, and promoting the arts and festivals.

Question 5

What famous temple construction did Pisistratus start?

Answer 5

Pisistratus started the construction of the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Question 6

How did Pisistratus preserve the works of Homer?

Answer 6

Pisistratus is credited with commissioning an official written version of the ‘Iliad’ and the ‘Odyssey,’ ensuring their preservation.

Question 7

During which century did Pisistratus rule Athens?

Answer 7

Pisistratus ruled during the 6th century BCE.

Question 8

What type of ruler was Pisistratus considered?

Answer 8

Pisistratus was considered a tyrant, though his rule was generally seen as just and beneficial for Athens.

Question 9

What was the political context during Pisistratus’ rule?

Answer 9

Pisistratus ruled during a time of social unrest and power struggles between aristocratic factions in Athens.

Question 10

What was the Panathenaic Festival, and how did Pisistratus contribute to it?

Answer 10

The Panathenaic Festival was an important Athenian celebration, and Pisistratus expanded it to promote arts and culture, including dramatic performances.

Question 11

What happened to Pisistratus during his time as ruler?

Answer 11

Pisistratus was exiled twice but managed to return to power both times.

Question 12

How did Pisistratus manipulate public opinion to regain power after exile?

Answer 12

Pisistratus used a woman dressed as the goddess Athena to convince the people that he was divinely chosen to rule.

Question 13

What influence did Pisistratus have on Athenian culture?

Answer 13

Pisistratus’ influence on Athenian culture included promoting the arts, festivals, and literature, especially the preservation of Homer’s epics.

Question 14

How did Pisistratus help ordinary Athenians?

Answer 14

Pisistratus helped ordinary Athenians by providing employment through public works and reducing the power of the aristocracy.

Question 15

What was Pisistratus’ legacy in terms of Athenian governance?

Answer 15

Pisistratus’ legacy includes laying the groundwork for the later development of Athenian democracy.

Question 16

How did Pisistratus’ dynasty end?

Answer 16

Pisistratus’ dynasty, the Pisistratids, was overthrown after his death, leading to the rise of Athenian democracy.

Question 17

How is Pisistratus’ rule viewed in historical terms?

Answer 17

Pisistratus’ rule is generally seen as beneficial, providing stability and promoting cultural development despite being a tyranny.

Question 18

What were the main challenges Pisistratus faced during his rule?

Answer 18

Pisistratus faced challenges from the aristocracy, opposition during his exiles, and political unrest.

Question 19

What was one of the clever political tricks Pisistratus used?

Answer 19

Pisistratus faked an injury to gain public sympathy and was granted a bodyguard, which he used to seize power.

Question 20

What major literary works are attributed to Pisistratus’ preservation efforts?

Answer 20

The ‘Iliad’ and the ‘Odyssey’ are the major literary works attributed to Pisistratus’ preservation efforts.

Question 21

How did Pisistratus use religion to his advantage?

Answer 21

Pisistratus used a religious stunt involving a woman dressed as Athena to manipulate public opinion and regain power.

Question 22

What lasting impact did Pisistratus have on Athenian festivals?

Answer 22

Pisistratus expanded the Panathenaic Festival, which later became a key part of Athenian cultural and religious life.

Question 23

What unique fact makes Pisistratus’ political tactics humorous in hindsight?

Answer 23

Pisistratus once used an actress dressed as the goddess Athena to convince the people he was chosen to rule, which seems amusing given the theatrical nature of the stunt.