Part II - Origin of the World First Dynasty Flashcards
(24 cards)
What was Chaos in Greek mythology?
A confused mass of shapeless elements that existed before the world took form.
What happened to the elements in Chaos?
They eventually became consolidated, though the means are unknown.
What did the lighter portion of the elements do?
It protected the firm and solid mass beneath.
What does ‘primeval’ mean?
Of or relating to the earliest ages; ancient or original.
Who was Uranus in Greek mythology?
The refined deity representing the light and air of heaven.
Who was Gæa in Greek mythology?
The firm, flat, life-sustaining earth goddess.
Who was the first-born child of Uranus and Gæa?
Oceanus, the ocean stream.
What does ‘fervid’ mean?
Intensely passionate or heated.
What was Aether (or Ether)?
A bright creation representing the highly rarified atmosphere that only immortals could breathe.
What was Aër (or Air)?
The grosser atmosphere near Gæa that mortals could breathe.
What separated Aether and Aër?
Divinities called Nephelae (clouds).
What else did Gæa produce besides gods?
The mountains and Pontus (the sea).
Who were Erebus and Nyx?
Erebus (Darkness) and Nyx (Night), representing contrast to light and cheerfulness.
What does ‘vestige’ mean?
A trace or remnant of something that is disappearing or no longer exists.
Who were the two races produced by Uranus and Gæa?
Giants and Titans.
Who were the three Giants and what was unique about them?
Briareus, Cottus, and Gyges; they had a hundred hands and fifty heads.
Who was Cronus?
A Titan and the son of Uranus and Gæa who overthrew his father.
What does ‘chaste’ mean?
Pure or morally clean, often in a sexual sense.
What does ‘abhorrence’ mean?
A feeling of strong repulsion or disgust.
Why did Uranus fear his children?
He feared their great power might eventually harm him.
What did Gæa do when Uranus grew tyrannical?
She instigated the Titans to conspire against him.
What did Cronus do to Uranus?
He dethroned him, and Uranus cursed Cronus and foretold his downfall.
What is Tartarus in Greek mythology?
A deep, gloomy part of the Underworld used as a dungeon of torment.
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