1.3

Question 1

What was the relationship between gods and mortals not based on

Answer 1

Mutual love

Question 2

How did mortals honour the gods ?
Give three examples
What did they hope to receive in return?

Answer 2

Through ritual acts
Sacrifices, libations, votive offerings
Divine blessings

Question 3

True or false: gods could choose to ignore the supplications of mortals

Answer 3

True

Question 4

Give an homeric example of the reciprocal relationship between gods and mortals

Answer 4

Iliad 24 - Zeus inclined to give favour to hector because his ‘altar never lacked its share of generous offerings’

Question 5

Give an Hesiodic example of the reciprocal relationship between gods and mortals

Answer 5

Works and days - instructs the making of libations before bed and in the morning every day to appease gods so that good things happen

Question 6

Give an example of an inscription that shows the reciprocal relationship between gods and mortals

Answer 6

Votive inscription from Asclepius’ healing shrine, Epidauros (4th cent):
Euphanes gives 10 knucklebones in exchange for healing - value of gift is important not quality or quantity

Question 7

Give an example of a votive offering that shows the reciprocal relationship between gods and mortals

Answer 7

Tyche’s leg
Asklepeion at Melos
1st/2nd century AD
Tyche gives thanks for healing her leg

Question 8

Give an example where god’s ignore supplications

Answer 8

Iliad 6 - Athens refuses to neutralise Diomedes despite plentiful offerings. Show status and power differential between gods and mortals

Question 9

Give a scholarly view on the reciprocal relationship between gods and mortals

Answer 9

Hitch 2009
For men: sacrifices and means of communication
For gods: sacrifice is a recognition of Man subordination + a means of rewarding behaviour that pleases the gods
Reciprocity is the heart of ancient Greek cult mentality