The Panathenaia Flashcards
‘What is a Rhapsode?
A performer of epic poetry, often reciting or singing from memory
What musical instruments were commonly associated with the Panathenaia?
Lyre and Aulos
What is an Apobates?
A competitor in a chariot race who jumps out and runs alongside the chariot
Define Pankration.
A martial art that combines elements of boxing and wrestling
What was the Dipylon Gate?
One of the main gates of Athens, marking the start of the procession
What does the Panathenaic Way refer to?
The wide street leading from the Dipylon Gate to the Acropolis
What is a Peplos?
A specially woven robe offered to the statue of Athena Polias
Who were the Arrephoroi?
Young girls who served Athena and carried the peplos
What was the Stadion in the context of the Panathenaia?
The site of the foot race competition
List the four tribal contests of the Panathenaia.
- Euandria: competition in manly excellence
- Boat Race: regatta at Piraeus
- Pyrrhic Dance: war dance performed to the aulos
- The Torch Race: relay race to the altar beside the Parthenon
What was the centerpiece of the Panathenaia festival?
The procession to the Acropolis
What did the procession begin at?
Sunrise at the Dipylon Gate
What was the significance of the Arrephoroi in the festival?
They dedicated the peplos and ground flour for sacrificial cakes
Describe the arrangement of the procession.
Priestesses, sacrificial animals, wealthy metics, musicians, soldiers, and victors in games
True or False: Each of Athens’ allies had to provide a cow for sacrifice during the procession.
True
What happened to the meat from the sacrificial animals?
Part was offered to Athena, the rest shared among the people
What was depicted on the peplos woven for the festival?
Athena’s victory over the giant Enkelados
Fill in the blank: The weaving of the peplos was of considerable _______ significance.
ritual
How did the peplos link to Athens as a city-state?
It symbolized Athena’s instructions for weaving a first garment and depicted divine supremacy
What two deities were particularly important to the Athenians in the fifth century?
- Athena
- Poseidon
What two key considerations were at the heart of Athenian culture?
- Enthusiasm for military intelligence
- Naval empire
What was the role of women in the Panathenaia?
They participated by weaving the peplos and contributing to the festival
