1.4 Myth and the City: Foundation stories Flashcards
(30 cards)
What two gods competed to name Athens in its foundation myth?
Athena and Poseidon
What gift did Poseidon offer Athens in the contest?
A salt-water spring
What gift did Athena offer Athens, and why was it chosen?
Olive tree - Useful for food, oil, and wood
Who judged the contest between Athena and Poseidon?
Cecrops, the first king of Athens
Where did the contest between Athena and Poseidon take place?
The Acropolis
What prescribed source depicts the Athens foundation myth?
West pediment of the Parthenon
What does the west pediment of the Parthenon show?
Athena and Poseidon competing, with their gifts
Who were present as witnesses on the Parthenon’s west pediment?
Cecrops and other mythical figures
Why was Athena’s victory significant for Athens?
Made her the city’s patron, tied to wisdom and prosperity
How did the olive tree reflect Athenian identity?
Symbolized peace, agriculture, and wealth
Who were the twin founders of Rome in its foundation myth?
Romulus and Remus
Who was the mother of Romulus and Remus?
Rhea Silvia
Who was the divine father of Romulus and Remus?
Mars
Why were Romulus and Remus abandoned at birth?
Their uncle Amulius feared they’d overthrow him
What saved Romulus and Remus after they were left to die?
A she-wolf suckled them
What prescribed source represents Rome’s foundation myth?
Statue of the She-Wolf suckling Romulus and Remus
Where is the She-Wolf statue traditionally located?
Capitoline Hill
What did Romulus and Remus argue about before founding Rome?
The location of the city (Palatine vs. Aventine Hill)
How did Romulus become Rome’s sole founder?
Killed Remus after he mocked Romulus’ wall
What hill did Romulus choose to found Rome?
Palatine Hill
What did Romulus name the city he founded?
Rome (after himself)
Why was Mars significant in Rome’s foundation myth?
As father of Romulus, linked Rome to war and strength
How did the She-Wolf symbolize Roman values?
Showed resilience and nurturing despite hardship
What river were Romulus and Remus left beside?
Tiber River
