Greek Myths and Symposium Discussions

Ancient Greek sculpture depicting a male figure usually with an erect phallus, often representing the community's strength and masculinity.

A female figure associated with wine and revelry, often depicted in Greek art with a staff, laurel crown, and leopard skin cloak.

A male figure often depicted in Greek art with goat-like features, prominent erection, and a fondness for wine and revelry. Sometimes depicted as wise, but often associated with exuberant male sexuality.

The act of viewing an object or image solely for sexual pleasure, often with emphasis on dominance.

A vase with two handles, commonly used in ancient Greece, often decorated with scenes from mythology or daily life.

A pottery technique developed in ancient Greece, often depicting figures and scenes in striking detail.

A term used to describe objects or images having an exaggerated erection, often found in ancient Greek art.

An ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, often depicted as having a satyr-like appearance.

A male Athenian who presents gifts to a prospective lover.

The ancient Greek word meaning "naked place", referring to the practice of exercising in the nude.

The institution of older men having sexual relationships with younger men.

The myth of Zeus in the form of an eagle kidnapping Ganymede.

A phenomenon in which homosexuality is seen as a practice unique to the Greek city-state, emphasizing its social and political context.

A scholar who argues that homosexuality was not prevalent in ancient Greece before the Classical period.

The study of ancient Greece, analyzing its culture, literature, social structures, and historical periods.

A method of examining ancient Greek texts and artifacts to understand social practices and beliefs.

A recurring theme in Greek art where a married couple shares a strong, direct gaze, symbolizing their bond and shared understanding.

The interpretation of ancient Greek vase paintings, particularly those depicting women, in which they are often seen as representing ancient sex workers or women in positions of submission.

The unveiling of Hera after her marriage to Zeus, a scene depicted in the Elgin marbles (Parthenon) that symbolizes the union of heaven and earth.

The relationship between Achilles and Penthesilea, as depicted in a vase by Exekias, where Achilles falls in love with Penthesilea after slaying her. This scene highlights the contradictions between love and violence.

The myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, where Orpheus tries to retrieve Eurydice from the underworld. This myth is depicted in a 5th century BCE relief.

The lack of reliable evidence regarding female homosexuality in ancient Greece, despite the existence of Sappho's poetry.

The practice of courtship, highlighted in Ancient Greek vase paintings and poetry.

Myths that explain the origin or reason for something, like a place, custom, or event.

A type of myth that justifies or supports existing customs, beliefs, and societal structures.

A theory by Claude Lévi-Strauss that suggests myths are structured around opposing ideas (like nature vs. culture).

The study of myths by identifying contrasting ideas and how they relate to each other.

The process of simplifying or ignoring details in myths to focus on the underlying structure and meaning.

The concept of 'civilization' being contrasted with the 'wild,' often seen in Greek mythology.

Characters or actions in myths representing the combination of opposing ideas, like civilization and nature.

Apollon represents civilization, Cyrene represents the wild, and their son Aristaeus embodies a balance of the two.

This was a social gathering of both men and women in Ancient Greece where they would drink, eat, and engage in intellectual discussion often accompanied by music and poetry.

In Ancient Greece, a symposium was a significant social event and a status symbol, where the presence of renowned poets elevated the social standing of the host.

Symposia, while declining in importance during the Classical period, have remained a notable aspect of social life in ancient Greece across various eras.

Greek mythology is a vast collection of stories about gods and heroes, creating a fantastical past for the Greek civilization.

Greek myths have had a significant influence on western culture, contributing to modern storytelling, science fiction, and even shaping our understanding of history.

Myth is a traditional tale passed down through generations, often rooted in oral storytelling and performance.

Myths were not always viewed as false by the ancient Greeks, as they were part of their understanding of the world and history.

The origin of the word 'myth' comes from the Greek word 'mythos,' which is related to 'speech making' and oral performance.

A traditional tale that's been passed down through generations, existing before any written texts and changing over time as it's retold in different contexts.

Myths that aim to explain natural phenomena, like weather or the cosmos, often using symbolic representations.