Themes of The Iliad
The pursuit of eternal glory, symbolized by heroic deeds and storytelling, is captured by this term and sought by warriors like Akhilleus.
What is kleos?
This mainland Greek city, known for its massive “Lion Gate” and royal tombs, was the center of a powerful civilization during the late Bronze Age.
What is Mycenae?
This council of 500 members, selected by lot, prepared laws for the Assembly and managed day-to-day administration.
What is the Boulē?
In one of her most famous fragments, this poet calls upon Aphrodite for assistance in matters of unrequited love.
Who is Sappho?
This king of the gods frequently tips the scales of the Trojan War, sending dreams, weighing fates, and ultimately favoring neither side consistently.
Who is Zeus?
This Greek concept of excellence in battle and character defines the heroic ideal and is demonstrated by warriors like Hektor and Akhilleus.
What is aretē?
This island was the heart of Minoan civilization, known for its palace complexes and vibrant frescoes, such as those found at Knossos.
What is Krete?
This main legislative body was open to all male citizens over 20 and met regularly to vote on laws, treaties, and other important decisions.
What is the Ekklēsia?
This poet from Paros rejected heroic ideals, famously writing about abandoning his shield in battle and prioritizing survival over glory.
Who is Arkhilokhos?
Known for her wisdom and strategy, this goddess often assists the Greeks and intervenes to restrain Akhilleus’ rage.
Who is Athene?
This term refers to delusion sent by the gods, often leading to disastrous consequences for mortals, as seen in Agamemnon's actions against Akhilleus.
What is atē?
This 19th-century archaeologist excavated Troy and Mycenae, seeking to prove Homer’s epics were rooted in historical fact.
Who is Heinrich Schliemann?
This public court system used citizen volunteers, chosen by lot, to serve as both judge and jury in legal cases.
What is the Dikasteria?
Known for his aristocratic background, this poet wrote about political ambition and revenge, including the overthrow of the tyrant Myrsilos.
Who is Alkaios?
Known for her fierce loyalty to the Greeks, this goddess exerts her influence through persuasion and even deception, including the seduction of another god to turn the tide of battle.
Who is Hera?
This concept of reciprocal favor underpins relationships in The Iliad, such as Thetis asking Zeus to honor her son in return for her past help.
What is kharis?
This archaeologist, who began excavating Knossos in 1899, named the Minoan civilization after a legendary king.
Who is Sir Arthur Evans?
This role, held by ten individuals (one per tribe), involved leading Athens’ military forces and often served as a springboard for political influence.
What is Strategos?
This poet’s works reflect Spartan ideals of harmony and tradition, often performed by a chorus of girls in public spectacles.
Who is Alkman?
This god of prophecy, healing, and plague brings divine wrath to the Greeks after Agamemnon dishonors his priest.
Who is Apollon?
This sacred bond of hospitality is broken when Paris abducts Helen, sparking the Trojan War and highlighting the consequences of failing to respect it.
What is xenia?
This undeciphered script, used primarily for bookkeeping in the Minoan civilization, remains one of archaeology's great mysteries.
What is Linear A?
These nine officials were chosen by lot each year and had administrative, judicial, and ceremonial duties, though their power diminished over time.
What are the Arkhons?
His poetry Spartanized the heroic ethic by linking individual courage and sacrifice to the collective success of Sparta.
Who is Tyrtaios?
This sea goddess appeals to Zeus to honor her mortal son and commissions divine armor for him after the death of his companion.
Who is Thetis?