Part III - Third Dynasty Flashcards
(37 cards)
What is the ægis in Greek mythology?
It is a protective cloak or shield associated with Zeus and Athena.
What role does Zeus play among the gods?
Zeus ensures each deity performs their duty, punishes misdeeds, settles disputes, and acts as their all-knowing counsellor and mighty friend.
What is the realm of the immortal gods called?
Aether.
Who created the thrones of the gods on Olympus?
The divine artist Hephaestus.
What is Zeus typically depicted holding?
A sheaf of thunderbolts in one hand and lightning in the other.
What is Zeus often accompanied by in artistic depictions?
An eagle, which either surmounts his sceptre or sits at his feet.
Why is the eagle sacred to Zeus?
Because it was believed to be the only creature that could gaze at the sun without being dazzled.
Who was Metis and why did Zeus swallow her?
Metis was the goddess of prudence and prophecy; Zeus swallowed her to avoid a prophecy that her child would overthrow him.
Why did Zeus disguise himself when visiting mortal women?
To prevent them from being destroyed by the splendour of his true divine form.
What magical act is attributed to Amphion, a descendant of Zeus?
He built the walls of Thebes by playing the lyre, causing stones to move into place.
Who was Minos and what role did he serve after death?
Minos became a judge of the underworld, known for his justice and moderation.
What happened to Callisto after Zeus won her affections?
Hera turned her into a bear, and later Zeus placed her among the stars as the constellation Arctos.
What trick did Hera use to cause Semele’s death?
Disguised as a nurse, she convinced Semele to ask Zeus to appear in his full divine glory, which killed her.
Who were Philemon and Baucis?
An old couple who hospitably welcomed Zeus and Hermes, unlike others in Phrygia.
What distinguishes Jupiter from Zeus in mythology?
Jupiter remains solely the supreme god of heaven and never appears on earth.
Who is the queen of heaven and protectress of purity and marriage?
Hera (Juno).
What sparked the judgment of Paris?
Eris threw a golden apple inscribed ‘For the Fairest’ among the gods.
Who did Paris choose as the fairest goddess?
Aphrodite.
Why did Hera persecute Paris and the Trojans?
Because Paris did not choose her as the fairest goddess.
What are Hera’s symbolic items and animals?
Diadem, veil, sceptre, peacock, hawk, goose, and peacock.
What plants were sacred to Hera?
Dittany, poppy, and lily.
What was Juno believed to guard?
The life of every woman from birth to death.
How was Athene born according to Homer?
She emerged in full armor from Zeus’s head, shaking Olympus and the sea.
Whose authority was equal to that of Zeus?
Athene (Minerva).
