Greek Mythology and the Iliad

The study of how early humans viewed their world and the stories they created to explain it.

The ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer, telling the story of the Trojan War.

The birth of a new era of civilization, characterized by a focus on human intellect and achievements.

The idea that humans are the most important beings in the universe, a groundbreaking concept in ancient thought.

Greek gods were created in the image of their creators, reflecting human desires and flaws.

Ancient Egyptian statues often depicted gods as rigid and unmoving, emphasizing their power and detachment from humanity.

Mesopotamian art often featured hybrid creatures, emphasizing the fantastical and otherworldly nature of their deities.

Greek statues, unlike earlier depictions, portrayed gods with natural and human-like beauty, reflecting a shift in religious and artistic perspectives.

The idea that the unseen (divine) can be understood through the seen (physical world), a Greek concept that emphasized the importance of observation and interaction with reality.

Greek art and literature focused on the human form, celebrating strength, beauty, and athleticism, reflecting a deep appreciation for human potential.

The Greek gods, although powerful, were also flawed and relatable, inhabiting a heaven that was similar to their world.

Zeus, the king of the gods, was known for his love affairs and mischievous nature, making him a popular figure in Greek mythology.

Hera, Zeus's wife, was often portrayed as a jealous and vengeful woman, reflecting common human emotions and struggles.

Greek mythology fostered a sense of familiarity and connection with the divine through humorous stories and relatable characters.

Greek deities were often associated with specific places and landscapes, emphasizing their connection to the natural world.

The Greek transformation of a fear-filled world into one of beauty and reason, where humans were significant and the divine was not just a force to be feared but also a source of inspiration.

The Greek rejection of the irrational and supernatural forces that were prevalent in other ancient cultures.

The presence of monstrous creatures in Greek mythology, like hydras and Gorgons, served as obstacles for heroes to overcome, signifying the triumph of human courage and strength.

Hercules, the quintessential Greek hero, embodies the victory of humans over monstrous forces, symbolizing Greece's overcoming of irrational fears and embracing reason.

Greek myths are not merely religious texts, but also early attempts to explain natural phenomena and human behavior through storytelling.

Explanations of natural occurrences, such as storms or volcanoes, through mythological tales involving gods and supernatural beings.

Myths often served as entertainment and storytelling, engaging audiences with fantastical tales and captivating characters.

Zeus, the king of the gods, evolved from a rain god to a more complex figure who represented justice and order.

The concept of justice and protection for the helpless, which became increasingly important in Greek mythology, reflecting the growing awareness of social inequalities.

Zeus transitioned from a god who favored the strong to a protector of the weak, signifying a shift in social values and a growing sense of compassion.

Greek mythology, despite its fantastical elements, reflects the ongoing development of human ethics and the search for a divine model that embodies ideal values.

The Greeks' long-standing desire for a divine ideal, leading them to refine their understanding of the divine, culminating in the concept of a Universal Father.