thesis statement on greek mythology

We use cookies to enhance our website for you. Proceed if you agree to this policy or learn more about it.

• Essay Database >
• Essay Examples >
• Essays Topics >
• Essay on Iliad

Free Greek Mythology Thesis Statement Sample

Type of paper: Thesis Statement

Topic: Iliad , Athens , Mythology , The Odyssey , God , Homer , Greek , Greece

Published: 03/20/2020

ORDER PAPER LIKE THIS

The Greek mythology as known today is a culmination of the traditions in different parts of the Greek civilization with each region having its own heroes. For examples, the Homer’s Iliad is a regional mythology that strived to appeal to as many cities as possible bringing together a common identity of the Greeks. During the time of Hesiod and Homer, Greece comprised of many cities and islands separated by natural boundaries made by the gods (Works and Days, 167-171). The Iliad mentions almost all the apart of Greece that took part in the Trojan War. The mythology often conflict with each on various matters. However, later, the myths on legends were merged into a single Greek tradition or mythology. For examples, the Mycenaean and the Minoan civilizations that were in the main land and the island of Crete respectively. Homer mentions many part to ensure that there is no regions that are left out to show that his expedition were a pan-Greek expedition. Homer emphasizes on the physical features of the places he visited and gave a detailed explanation of the hypothetical locations to explain about god. Both Homer and Hesiod mention Mt. Olympus so as to appeal to their audiences on the historical aspect of their epics in relation to god. Such also appealed to strangers. Hesiod tends to use symbolic geographical locations as opposed to the actual locations to bring in the myths the concept of God in Mt. Olympus. Hesiod allocates Olympus the sky, Gaia the underworld and the earth, and Poseidon the sea that are all symbolic. Homer’s Iliad is used an almost impossible locations mentioning Athenian statue and troy-a spiritual centre that had very small role during the beginning of the Trojan War. Both homer and Hesiod use the muse of Mt. Helicon. The mentioned places differentiated parts occupied by humans, and the ones occupied by humans. The description of the places was also aimed at advancing personal views. For examples, Homer described many places to ensure that his adventures are continued in generational inheritances making him immortal even when he was not. In the mythologies, the locational descriptions put the narrations in context making them easy for understanding and close association with the readers. Important places mentioned in the Iliad include Troy, Mysia, Arisbe, and many other cities across the region that gave Homer the legitimacy of his poems. Other places mentioned in the Theogony include Kypros, Kythra, Krete, Lyktos, Mt. Aigiaon and also Mekone. The myths are tied to relationships between the actual locations and the hypothetical locations that were mainly the places where god lived. The interaction of these two places forms the fundamental description of the geographical features and how they affected the people.

Hesiod, Works and Days. Trans. Hugh G. Evelyn-White . 1914. people.sc.fsu.edu. web. 30 Nov. 2014.

Cite this page

Share with friends using:

Removal Request

Finished papers: 2804

This paper is created by writer with

If you want your paper to be:

Well-researched, fact-checked, and accurate

Original, fresh, based on current data

Eloquently written and immaculately formatted

275 words = 1 page double-spaced

Get your papers done by pros!

Other Pages

Law literature reviews, wildfires argumentative essays, gambling addiction argumentative essays, orthodox church argumentative essays, architect argumentative essays, safeguard argumentative essays, captain argumentative essays, tomb argumentative essays, reverse argumentative essays, liquidity argumentative essays, litigation argumentative essays, example of essay on rules of interpretation, example of essay on assembly bill 60 drivers licenses for undocumented immigrants in california, who is responsible for education and what does it mean to be responsible course work examples, dna dragnets literature review examples, overview of contemporary islamic finance book review example, good analyzing scene in city of god movie review example, free essay on nursing and its effect on my life, free lab 1 heating value measurements solid and liquid fuels with a bomb calorimeter essay sample, wal mart and mis essay, cash conversion essay example, free textual analysis of still image essay example, example of crude oil and its uses essay, good report on execution summary, free cjm 302 final case study sample, leadership essays examples, free essay about how does quot kashrut quot jewish dietary laws show difference between jews, good cash flow estimation essay example, good example of what motivates entrepreneurs report, example of what major changes in political structures social and economic life occured during essay, good are the laws against illegal drug use fair do they affect all citizens regardless research paper example, good essay on organizational behavior, biology research papers example, a skeptic is one who is willing to question any knowledge claim asking for clarity essay example, free differentiation in an organization critical thinking example, good research paper about the venus of urbino, good research paper about biology, decoupling essays, bucky essays, linus essays, ductal essays.

Password recovery email has been sent to [email protected]

Use your new password to log in

You are not register!

By clicking Register, you agree to our Terms of Service and that you have read our Privacy Policy .

Now you can download documents directly to your device!

Check your email! An email with your password has already been sent to you! Now you can download documents directly to your device.

or Use the QR code to Save this Paper to Your Phone

The sample is NOT original!

Short on a deadline?

Don't waste time. Get help with 11% off using code - GETWOWED

No, thanks! I'm fine with missing my deadline

Home — Essay Samples — Religion — God — Greek Mythology: Athena

Greek Mythology: Athena

• Categories: God

About this sample

Words: 454 |

Published: Mar 1, 2019

Words: 454 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Hook Examples for Greek Mythology Essay

• Mythical Intrigue: Step into the enchanting world of Greek mythology, where gods and goddesses reign supreme. Among them, the formidable Athena, goddess of wisdom and war, stands out as a symbol of intelligence, strategy, and courage. Join me as we embark on a journey through her captivating tale.
• Mysterious Origins: The birth of Athena, emerging fully grown and armored from the head of her father, Zeus, is a mythological marvel. Explore the enigmatic circumstances surrounding Athena’s creation and her divine lineage that sets her apart among the Greek deities.
• The Goddess’s Arsenal: Athena’s prowess in war is legendary, and her sacred image reflects her martial might. Delve into the weapons, animals, and symbols associated with Athena, and discover how she wielded her intelligence and valor on the battlefield.
• Inventive Genius: Beyond her warrior persona, Athena reveals her creative side as an inventor of tools, instruments, and farming implements. Uncover the contributions she made to human civilization and the lasting impact of her innovations.
• A Complex Character: Athena’s multifaceted personality includes wisdom, kindness, and ruthlessness. Explore the duality of this goddess and the myths that illustrate both her benevolent and uncompromising sides.

Works Cited

• Burkert, W. (1985). Greek religion: Archaic and classical. Blackwell Publishing.
• Carpenter, T. H. (1991). Art and myth in ancient Greece: A handbook. Thames & Hudson.
• Hamilton, E. (2011). Mythology: Timeless tales of gods and heroes. Grand Central Publishing.
• Harrison, J. E. (1968). Prolegomena to the study of Greek religion. Princeton University Press.
• Morford, M. P., & Lenardon, R. J. (2011). Classical mythology (10th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Ogden, D. (2009). Athena. Routledge.
• Pomeroy, S. B., Burstein, S. M., Donlan, W., & Roberts, J. T. (2018). A brief history of ancient Greece: Politics, society, and culture (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Price, S. R. F. (1999). Religions of the ancient Greeks. Cambridge University Press.
• Rose, H. J. (2009). Handbook of Greek mythology. Routledge.
• Tripp, E. J. (1970). The Meridian handbook of classical mythology. Meridian.

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Karlyna PhD

Verified writer

• Expert in: Religion

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

3 pages / 1392 words

4 pages / 2046 words

1 pages / 478 words

1 pages / 612 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on God

The Bible. New International Version. Bible Gateway, www.biblegateway.com.

Taking care of god’s creation is hard work, and, as discussed in this essay, our mentality of “I do what’s best for me” completely opposes it. We are bombarded with messages and advertisements telling us to make life easier and [...]

The ontological argument is a philosophical and theological concept that seeks to prove the existence of God through reason and logic alone. It is a unique and intriguing argument that has fascinated philosophers and theologians [...]

The question of God's existence has long been a subject of philosophical debate, encompassing a myriad of arguments both for and against. One of the most intriguing contributions to this discourse is Blaise Pascal's pragmatic [...]

The Mystery of Incarnation is the mystery of the descending of God the Son who is one of the Trinity from heaven and taking up flesh and rational soul from the Holy Virgin Mary. This is the mystery of God becoming man and man [...]

The existence of God has been a big subject in philosophy and efforts to prove or disprove his existence have been taking place since the dawn of time. Notable philosophers such as Rene Descartes, Saint Thomas Aquinas, and [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Hercules in Greek Mythology

This essay about the mythological figure Hercules, also known as Heracles in Greek mythology. It explores his life, adventures, and symbolic significance in ancient Greek culture. Hercules’ story reflects themes of heroism, endurance, divine intervention, and redemption. Through his legendary Twelve Labors and other feats, Hercules exemplifies the quintessential hero, overcoming challenges with strength, cunning, and virtue. His journey, from mortal struggles to divine apotheosis, offers insights into ancient Greek values and beliefs, shaping both classical mythology and modern understandings of heroism and virtue.

How it works

Hercules, or Heracles in Greek mythology, stands as one of the most renowned figures in ancient lore, embodying the archetype of the hero. His adventures, trials, and overarching journey not only provide entertainment but also offer deep insights into the values and concerns of ancient Greek culture. This essay explores the life and deeds of Hercules, analyzing how his mythological path reflects broader themes such as heroism, redemption, and the interaction between the divine and the mortal.

Born to Zeus and Alcmene, Hercules was subject to Hera’s wrath throughout his life due to Zeus’s infidelity.

Hera’s vendetta against Hercules began with his name; “Hera’s glory” is a testament to the complexities of his existence, marked by the goddess’s relentless attempts to destroy him. This divine conflict set the stage for Hercules’ life, a narrative defined by struggle and perseverance against overwhelming odds.

Hercules is perhaps best known for the Twelve Labors, a series of tasks imposed on him as penance for killing his wife Megara and their children in a fit of madness, instigated by Hera. These labors were designed to be impossible tasks, yet Hercules, with his superhuman strength and the aid of divine artifacts, successfully completed them, securing his place as the quintessential hero. Each labor—from slaying the invulnerable Nemean Lion and capturing the Golden Hind of Artemis to obtaining the girdle of Hippolyta, the Queen of the Amazons—highlights a facet of his heroism, as well as his cunning, another esteemed trait in Greek heroic narratives.

Beyond physical strength, Hercules’ labors underscore a thematic exploration of struggle and virtue. They symbolize the human condition, encapsulating the idea that real strength lies in the ability to endure suffering and overcome challenges, a reflection of the Greek philosophical appreciation for endurance and effort. Furthermore, the labors reflect the ancient Greek world’s view of the divine’s interaction with humanity, where gods and goddesses directly influenced, and often complicated, the lives of mortals.

After completing the labors, Hercules continued to undertake significant quests and participated in famous battles and adventures, such as aiding the gods in the battle against the Giants in the Gigantomachy and searching for the Golden Apples of the Hesperides. His involvement in these epic stories not only cements his status as a hero but also as a protector of mankind and the Olympian order, often acting as a bridge between the gods and humanity.

Hercules’ death, which also involved a tragic twist of fate through the deception involving the poisoned shirt of Nessus, ultimately led to his apotheosis. Ascending to Olympus upon his mortal death, Hercules was granted immortality, a rare honor for a hero, which symbolizes the ultimate redemption and glorification of his trials on earth. His deification can be interpreted as a narrative closure that reflects the ancient belief in the possibility of overcoming mortal imperfections and achieving a divine state through heroic deeds.

In conclusion, Hercules in Greek mythology serves as a profound symbol of the hero’s journey, characterized by trials, suffering, and eventual transcendence. His story offers a rich tapestry through which to explore themes of heroism, the impact of divine influence, and the moral and philosophical dilemmas of the ancient Greeks. Hercules remains a timeless figure, representing the eternal struggle against adversity and the quest for redemption. His myths not only shaped ancient Greek culture but continue to influence modern interpretations of heroism and virtue.

Cite this page

Hercules In Greek Mythology. (2024, Apr 29). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/hercules-in-greek-mythology/

"Hercules In Greek Mythology." PapersOwl.com , 29 Apr 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/hercules-in-greek-mythology/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Hercules In Greek Mythology . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/hercules-in-greek-mythology/ [Accessed: 17 Sep. 2024]

"Hercules In Greek Mythology." PapersOwl.com, Apr 29, 2024. Accessed September 17, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/hercules-in-greek-mythology/

"Hercules In Greek Mythology," PapersOwl.com , 29-Apr-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/hercules-in-greek-mythology/. [Accessed: 17-Sep-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Hercules In Greek Mythology . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/hercules-in-greek-mythology/ [Accessed: 17-Sep-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History Essays

Theseus, hero of athens.

Terracotta amphora (jar)

Signed by Taleides as potter

Terracotta kylix: eye-cup (drinking cup)

Terracotta lekythos (oil flask)

Attributed to the Diosphos Painter

Terracotta kylix (drinking cup)

Attributed to the Briseis Painter

Terracotta calyx-krater (bowl for mixing wine and water)

Attributed to a painter of the Group of Polygnotos

Terracotta Nolan neck-amphora (jar)

Attributed to the Dwarf Painter

Attributed to the Eretria Painter

Marble sarcophagus with garlands and the myth of Theseus and Ariadne

Andrew Greene Department of Greek and Roman Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

August 2009

In the ancient Greek world, myth functioned as a method of both recording history and providing precedent for political programs. While today the word “myth” is almost synonymous with “fiction,” in antiquity, myth was an alternate form of reality . Thus, the rise of Theseus as the national hero of Athens, evident in the evolution of his iconography in Athenian art, was a result of a number of historical and political developments that occurred during the sixth and fifth centuries B.C.

Myth surrounding Theseus suggests that he lived during the Late Bronze Age, probably a generation before the Homeric heroes of the Trojan War. The earliest references to the hero come from the Iliad and the Odyssey , the Homeric epics of the early eighth century B.C. Theseus’ most significant achievement was the Synoikismos, the unification of the twelve demes, or local settlements of Attica, into the political and economic entity that became Athens.

Theseus’ life can be divided into two distinct periods, as a youth and as king of Athens . Aegeus, king of Athens, and the sea god Poseidon ( 53.11.4 ) both slept with Theseus’ mother, Aithra, on the same night, supplying Theseus with both divine and royal lineage. Theseus was born in Aithra’s home city of Troezen, located in the Peloponnesos , but as an adolescent he traveled around the Saronic Gulf via Epidauros, the Isthmus of Corinth, Krommyon, the Megarian Cliffs, and Eleusis before finally reaching Athens. Along the way he encountered and dispatched six legendary brigands notorious for attacking travelers.

Upon arriving in Athens, Theseus was recognized by his stepmother, Medea, who considered him a threat to her power. Medea attempted to dispatch Theseus by poisoning him, conspiring to ambush him with the Pallantidae Giants, and by sending him to face the Marathonian Bull ( 56.171.48 ).

Likely the most famous of Theseus’ deeds was the slaying of the Minotaur ( 64.300 ; 47.11.5 ; 09.221.39 ). Athens was forced to pay an annual tribute of seven maidens and seven youths to King Minos of Crete to feed the Minotaur, half man, half bull, that inhabited the labyrinthine palace of Minos at Knossos. Theseus, determined to end Minoan dominance, volunteered to be one of the sacrificial youths. On Crete, Theseus seduced Minos’ daughter, Ariadne, who conspired to help him kill the Minotaur and escape by giving him a ball of yarn to unroll as he moved throughout the labyrinth ( 90.12a,b ). Theseus managed to flee Crete with Ariadne, but then abandoned her on the island of Naxos during the voyage back to Athens. King Aegeus had told Theseus that upon returning to Athens, he was to fly a white sail if he had triumphed over the Minotaur, and to instruct the crew to raise a black sail if he had been killed. Theseus, forgetting his father’s direction, flew a black sail as he returned. Aegeus, in his grief, threw himself from the cliff at Cape Sounion into the Aegean, making Theseus the new king of Athens and giving the sea its name.

There is but a sketchy picture of Theseus’ deeds in later life, gleaned from brief literary references of the early Archaic period , mostly from fragmentary works by lyric poets. Theseus embarked on a number of expeditions with his close friend Peirithoos, the king of the Lapith tribe from Thessaly in northern Greece. He also undertook an expedition against the Amazons, in some versions with Herakles , and kidnapped their queen Antiope, whom he subsequently married ( 31.11.13 ; 56.171.42 ). Enraged by this, the Amazons laid siege to Athens, an event that became popular in later artistic representations.

There are certain aspects of the myth of Theseus that were clearly modeled on the more prominent hero Herakles during the early sixth century B.C. Theseus’s encounter with the brigands parallels Herakles’ six deeds in the northern Peloponnesos. Theseus’ capture of the Marathonian Bull mirrors Herakles’ struggle with the Cretan Bull. There also seems to be some conflation of the two since they both partook in an Amazonomachy and a Centauromachy. Both heroes additionally have links to Athena and similarly complex parentage with mortal mothers and divine fathers.

However, while Herakles’ life appears to be a string of continuous heroic deeds, Theseus’ life represents that of a real person, one involving change and maturation. Theseus became king and therefore part of the historical lineage of Athens, whereas Herakles remained free from any geographical ties, probably the reason that he was able to become the Panhellenic hero. Ultimately, as indicated by the development of heroic iconography in Athens, Herakles was superseded by Theseus because he provided a much more complex and local hero for Athens.

The earliest extant representation of Theseus in art appears on the François Vase located in Florence, dated to about 570 B.C. This famous black-figure krater shows Theseus during the Cretan episode, and is one of a small number of representations of Theseus dated before 540 B.C. Between 540 and 525 B.C. , there was a large increase in the production of images of Theseus, though they were limited almost entirely to painted pottery and mainly showed Theseus as heroic slayer of the Minotaur ( 09.221.39 ; 64.300 ). Around 525 B.C. , the iconography of Theseus became more diverse and focused on the cycle of deeds involving the brigands and the abduction of Antiope. Between 490 and 480 B.C. , interest centered on scenes of the Amazonomachy and less prominent myths such as Theseus’ visit to Poseidon’s palace ( 53.11.4 ). The episode is treated in a work by the lyric poet Bacchylides. Between 450 and 430 B.C. , there was a decline in representations of the hero on vases; however, representations in other media increase. In the mid-fifth century B.C. , youthful deeds of Theseus were placed in the metopes of the Parthenon and the Hephaisteion, the temple overlooking the Agora of Athens. Additionally, the shield of Athena Parthenos, the monumental chryselephantine cult statue in the interior of the Parthenon, featured an Amazonomachy that included Theseus.

The rise in prominence of Theseus in Athenian consciousness shows an obvious correlation with historical events and particular political agendas. In the early to mid-sixth century B.C. , the Athenian ruler Solon (ca. 638–558 B.C. ) made a first attempt at introducing democracy. It is worth noting that Athenian democracy was not equivalent to the modern notion; rather, it widened political involvement to a larger swath of the male Athenian population. Nonetheless, the beginnings of this sort of government could easily draw on the Synoikismos as a precedent, giving Solon cause to elevate the importance of Theseus. Additionally, there were a large number of correspondences between myth and historical events of this period. As king, Theseus captured the city of Eleusis from Megara and placed the boundary stone at the Isthmus of Corinth, a midpoint between Athens and its enemy. Domestically, Theseus opened Athens to foreigners and established the Panathenaia, the most important religious festival of the city. Historically, Solon also opened the city to outsiders and heightened the importance of the Panathenaia around 566 B.C.

When the tyrant Peisistratos seized power in 546 B.C. , as Aristotle noted, there already existed a shrine dedicated to Theseus, but the exponential increase in artistic representations during Peisistratos’ reign through 527 B.C. displayed the growing importance of the hero to political agenda. Peisistratos took Theseus to be not only the national hero, but his own personal hero, and used the Cretan adventures to justify his links to the island sanctuary of Delos and his own reorganization of the festival of Apollo there. It was during this period that Theseus’s relevance as national hero started to overwhelm Herakles’ importance as Panhellenic hero, further strengthening Athenian civic pride.

Under Kleisthenes, the polis was reorganized into an even more inclusive democracy, by dividing the city into tribes, trittyes, and demes, a structure that may have been meant to reflect the organization of the Synoikismos. Kleisthenes also took a further step to outwardly claim Theseus as the Athenian hero by placing him in the metopes of the Athenian treasury at Delphi, where he could be seen by Greeks from every polis in the Aegean.

The oligarch Kimon (ca. 510–450 B.C. ) can be considered the ultimate patron of Theseus during the early to mid-fifth century B.C. After the first Persian invasion (ca. 490 B.C. ), Theseus came to symbolize the victorious and powerful city itself. At this time, the Amazonomachy became a key piece of iconography as the Amazons came to represent the Persians as eastern invaders. In 476 B.C. , Kimon returned Theseus’ bones to Athens and built a shrine around them which he had decorated with the Amazonomachy, the Centauromachy, and the Cretan adventures, all painted by either Mikon or Polygnotos, two of the most important painters of antiquity. This act represented the final solidification of Theseus as national hero.

Greene, Andrew. “Theseus, Hero of Athens.” In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History . New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/thes/hd_thes.htm (August 2009)

Further Reading

Barber, Elizabeth Wayland, and Paul T. Barber. When They Severed Earth from Sky: How the Human Mind Shapes Myth . Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2005.

Boardman, John "Herakles." In Lexicon Iconographicum Mythologicae Classicae , vol. V, 1. Zürich: Artemis, 1981.

Camp, John McK. The Archaeology of Athens . New Haven: Yale University Press, 2001.

Gehrke, Hans-Joachim. "Myth, History, and Collective Identity: Uses of the Past in Ancient Greece and Beyond." In The Historian's Craft in the Age of Herodotus , edited by Nino Luraghi, pp. 286–313. New York: Oxford University Press, 2001.

Harrison, Evelyn B. "Motifs of the City Siege of Athena Parthenos." American Journal of Archaeology 85, no. 3 (July 1981), pp. 281–317.

Hornblower, Simon, and Antony Spawforth, eds. The Oxford Classical Dictionary . 3d ed., rev. New York: Oxford University Press, 2003.

Neils, Jenifer. "Theseus." In Lexicon Iconographicum Mythologicae Classicae , vol. VII, 1, pp. 922–51. Zürich: Artemis, 1981.

Servadei, Cristina. La figura di Theseus nella ceramica attica: Iconografia e iconologia del mito nell'Atene arcaica e classica . Bologna: Ante Quem, 2005.

Shapiro, H. A. "Theseus: Aspects of the Hero in Archaic Greece." In New Perspectives in Early Greek Art , edited by Diana Buitron-Oliver, pp. 123–40. Washington, D.C.: National Gallery of Art, 1991.

Shapiro, H. A. Art and Cult under the Tyrants in Athens . Mainz am Rhein: Philipp von Zabern, 1989.

Simon, Erika. Festivals of Attica . Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1983.

Related Essays

• Greek Gods and Religious Practices
• The Labors of Herakles
• Minoan Crete
• The Achaemenid Persian Empire (550–330 B.C.)
• Ancient Greek Colonization and Trade and their Influence on Greek Art
• Athenian Vase Painting: Black- and Red-Figure Techniques
• Death, Burial, and the Afterlife in Ancient Greece
• Greek Art in the Archaic Period
• Heroes in Italian Mythological Prints
• The Kithara in Ancient Greece
• Music in Ancient Greece
• Mycenaean Civilization
• Mystery Cults in the Greek and Roman World
• Paintings of Love and Marriage in the Italian Renaissance
• The Rediscovery of Classical Antiquity
• Scenes of Everyday Life in Ancient Greece
• Women in Classical Greece

List of Rulers

• List of Rulers of the Ancient Greek World
• Ancient Greece, 1000 B.C.–1 A.D.
• Ancient Greece, 1–500 A.D.
• Achaemenid Empire
• Ancient Greek Art
• Ancient Near Eastern Art
• Ancient Roman Art
• Anthropomorphism
• Archaeology
• Archaic Period
• Black-Figure Pottery
• Classical Period
• Deity / Religious Figure
• Funerary Art
• Greek and Roman Mythology
• Greek Literature / Poetry
• Herakles / Hercules
• Homer’s Iliad
• Homer’s Odyssey
• Literature / Poetry
• Mycenaean Art
• Mythical Creature
• Painted Object
• Poseidon / Neptune
• Relief Sculpture
• Sarcophagus
• Sculpture in the Round

Artist or Maker

• Briseis Painter
• Diosphos Painter
• Dwarf Painter
• Eretria Painter
• Pollaiuolo, Antonio
• Polygnotos Group
• Taleides Painter

How to Write a Thesis in Mythology

Shara jj cooper.

Writing a thesis is required by most post-secondary institutions when you complete a master's degree. The thesis is a dissertation, or large research paper, that summarizes the work you have done in a specific area. Many humanity programs, such as English and history, allow you to write about mythology. This topic is varied and can include topics like Greek or Egyptian mythology. Greek mythology in popular culture is an example of a thesis topic. In order to write a thesis you need to do in-depth research on the topic, focus your findings to a specific topic and write a thesis about this topic. Writing a thesis can take weeks to finish. The length of thesis papers varies greatly but can be 50 to 400 pages.

Determine the thesis statement for your topic. This statement is usually one, concise sentence that shows what you are going to prove in your thesis. It will summarize your main point and the results of your research. Read your thesis statement out loud, write it out by hand and tape it to your computer or a bulletin board. This statement will keep you on track throughout your thesis. The thesis statement is usually placed at the last line of the introducing paragraph. For example, Greek mythology can be found in every genre of popular culture. Refer to your thesis statement as you write. All points made in the thesis should work to prove your thesis statement.

Draw up an outline for your thesis. Include an introduction, paragraphs for your main points and room for all of the supporting evidence. Design the thesis so it follows a logical flow, with each thought expanding on or backing up the previous thought. Add graphics such as charts, time graphs or pictures from the type of mythology you are writing about. Note where you will include them in your outline. For example, outline the different aspects of popular culture like TV, movies, video games and literature and where Greek mythology shows up.

Write the thesis by starting with the body of the paper. Write the thesis last. By the time you finish the body of the thesis you will know exactly what the paper looks like and the introduction will be easier to write. Follow your outline as you write the body of the thesis but allow yourself to make changes if the flow doesn't feel right. Craft each section so you introduce an idea, back up your ideas and then make a conclusion when possible. For example, start by talking about Greek mythology in TV and some of the characters that stem from it like the maenads in "True Blood."

Add the introduction when the body of the paper is finished. This is where you make your main points about the mythology you researched and demonstrate what you are going to prove in your thesis. Use attention-catching statements or ideas in the introduction to draw the reader in. End the introduction with your thesis statement. In the Greek mythology example, you can talk about some of the main Greek characters that are frequently used, such as Zeus or Achilles.

Finish the paper with a strong conclusion that recaps the points you were making. This is the time to ensure the reader really remembers what you were trying to demonstrate. Reaffirm the main ideas, especially those that you want the reader to discuss or remember later. The conclusion is your chance to really push an idea home. For example, reword the thesis statement on Greek mythology to show you made your point.

Use any tools available to you to ensure the paper is formatted properly and free of errors. Use online spell checkers, have friends read the paper and take it to an editing service at your university. Many universities offer these services in the library for students. Set the paper aside for a few days and go back and review it with fresh eyes. Rewrite as necessary.

Format the thesis according to the guidelines required by your professor. This usually includes a title page, table of contents and bibliography. Humanities classes usually use the MLA style guide so ensure your work follows this guide.

• Use in-text citations for any work that isn't your own and to show the professor where you are getting your information from.
• 1 Indiana University: Writing a Thesis Statement
• 2 Purdue Online Writing Lab; Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements; Elyssa Tardiff, et al.; February 2011
• 3 American Historical Association; Practical Advice for Writing Your Dissertation, Book, or Article; Liena Vayzman; December 2006
• 4 Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory; How to Write Your Thesis; Kim Kastens, et. al
• 5 Greek Mythology; Home

About the Author

Shara JJ Cooper graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism in 2000, and has worked professionally ever since. She has a passion for community journalism, but likes to mix it up by writing for a variety of publications. Cooper is the owner/editor of the Boundary Sentinel, a web-based newspaper.

Related Articles

How to Write a Graduate-Level Research paper

How to Write an Analytical Critique

How to Check an Essay

How to Write a Research Design

Do You Underline a College Thesis Title?

How to Write a Theological Thesis

How to Write a Sample Topic Proposal

How to Write an Informative/Explanatory Paper

How to Write a Thought Paper

How to Do a Research Paper Outline From Your Note Cards

How to Write a History Paper Proposal

How to End an Informative Paper

How to Publish a Thesis Online

How to Make an Outline for a Position Paper

Similarities of Persians & Greeks

How to Critique a Dissertation

How to Write an Insight Paper

How to Write a Literature Report

Tips on College Essays About Literature

How to Write an Outline for a Thesis Paper in Chicago...

Regardless of how old we are, we never stop learning. Classroom is the educational resource for people of all ages. Whether you’re studying times tables or applying to college, Classroom has the answers.

• Accessibility
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Copyright Policy
• Manage Preferences

© 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Based on the Word Net lexical database for the English Language. See disclaimer .

Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

In the history of the World, no other society has had such a rich mix of religion, mythology, philosophy, and history as the ancient Greeks. Some experts claim that the genesis of this intermingling lay in the overtly polytheistic nature of ancient Greek religion which worshipped a pantheon of gods. The Mediterranean region with its diverse seafaring traditions was a birthplace for the intermingling of cultures. Polytheism led to the Greeks adopting a remarkable tolerant attitude towards the viewpoints and beliefs of others.

Over a period of time, such broad attitudes became fertile ground for the exercise of human imagination leading to the birth of great epics steeped in legend, mixed with actual historical facts, and the dawn of modern philosophical thought. The operative utility of this tradition of philosophy gave rise to the Greek city-states, the first form of a democratic society. According to Knierim, “The ancient Greeks viewed the world in a way that one would today perhaps describe as ‘holistic’. Science, philosophy and politics were interwoven and combined into one worldview” (1). This essay attempts to describe the ancient Greek period from 2700 B.C to the 4th century B.C with a view to explain the interrelation between Greek religion, mythology, philosophy, and history.

Greek religion can be classified into four main periods. During the period 2700-1100 B.C, the religion of the Minoan and Mycenaean cultures was practiced in the region of Crete and the Aegean Basin. This religion was predominantly based on female deities. Other figures of animals with human heads suggested that some form of animism was also prevalent. The ancient religious stories of the Minoans and the Mycenaean were transmitted orally to the other parts of the Mediterranean region which later fused with the Greek traditions and religious practices.

As the Greek societies evolved, so did their religion, and the next period 1100-750 B.C is referred to as the ‘Heroic Age’ made famous by Homer and Hesiod. It was during this period that the pantheon of Greek gods attained their fame and acceptance by the Greeks. The third period witnessed a move away from polytheism to the era of rational thinking and skepticism also known as the ‘Golden Age of Athens, spanning from the 6 th century to 4 th century B.C. The final period, Greco-Roman ranged from 2 nd century B.C to 2 nd century A.D which basically led to the export of Greek philosophical thought the world over.

The effect of Greek mythology on religion and history is so entwined that often it becomes difficult to distinguish the two. The Greek pantheon of Gods presided over by Zeus, made famous by Hesiod and Homer became the focal point of Greek religion. Not only were mythological stories attributed to the Olympiad Gods, but they also became the basis for regulating Greek society too. Lloyd-Jones ( 2006) states that “ The early poet Hesiod explains that “Zeus gave to kings the them es, the principles of justice by which they ruled”(460). The mythologies encouraged the practice of sacrifice to the various gods to achieve defined ends. “Greek armies always made a divinatory sacrifice before going into battle, and the general took the omens after a sacrifice before deciding to go into action”. (Lloyd-Jones,2006, p.461).

The establishment of the Oracle of Delphi in honor of the Greek God Apollo took a political hue when every ruler far and wide consulted the Oracle to determine the course of action for conquest, administration of the state, and a host of other decisions. So popular was its usage that not only did the Greeks use the Oracle, but also other non-Greek kingdoms.

In Greek society, myth and history too were inexorably intertwined. A typical example is exemplified by the Trojan War, which according to many historians and archaeologists, was a real historical event. But the myth surrounding the idea of building the Trojan horse is attributed to the divine intervention of the Greek Goddess Pallas-Athene (Minerva). According to Berens, “She also taught the Greeks how to build the wooden horse by means of which the destruction of Troy was effected”(43).

Homer’s epics Iliad and Odyssey served as a rallying point for the Greek society. The Gods and Goddesses as described by Homer were revered by the Greeks and “these works came to serve as both epic and bible, providing a vivid ideal of manly prowess set in a framework of religious belief” (Time-Life Book, 1988, 53). The Olympic Games founded in 776 BC were dedicated to the God Zeus. The Battle of Marathon in 490 B.C between the Greeks and the Persians was a true historical event.

However, the so-called feat of a messenger running the entire 42 km from the war front to Athens is a legend that has no historical proof but nevertheless is entwined in popular culture leading to the institution of the famous marathon runner in the Olympic Games.

The Greek Philosophers had an undeniably relevant role in the development of Greek History. Solon who was elected as the archon of Athens in 594 B.C laid the framework of a democratic society. Socrates propounded the ‘test of reason’ as a philosophy of rationalism. “Instead of building on the myopic ideas of mythology, he began a rational inquiry into the riddles that nature presents. This inquiry is based on reflection and reason alone, and it may be his greatest achievement” (Knierim, 4).

Reasoning, rationalism, and critical thinking were the natural evolution of a polytheistic creed steeped in intolerance and intellectual inquiry into the nature of things. This tradition of reasoning finally led to the denouncement of the numerous Greek Gods by the Greek philosophers. By the end of the fifth century B.C, Greek philosophy became more scientific in its outlook. “ Plato denounced the immorality of the gods as portrayed by Homer and the other poets”( Lloyd-Jones, 2006 p.463).

Aristotle moderated the harsh critique of Gods propounded by Plato and his brand of ethics was more accommodative to traditional Greek religion. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that Aristotelian logic still finds popular support in these modern times. Despite the onslaught of rationalism and reasoning, traditional Greek gods continued to be worshipped and were supplemented in the Greco-Roman period by Roman Gods. The cults survived for eight centuries after Plato till the 4 th century A.D when the Christian emperor Theodosius banned and persecuted the followers of polytheism leading to their decline.

In conclusion, it can be said that the unique blend of mythology, religion, philosophy, and history in the Greek traditions survived for over a thousand years because of the syncretistic nature of the Greek thought, based on polytheistic processes which yielded an unusual degree of tolerance not to be seen in the later monotheistic creed of Christianity and Islam.

Some historians claim that this ability to assimilate differing thought came not only because of the genius of the Greek people but also because of the influence of Eastern thought which came by through the extensive trade links that Greece had with the East. The rich blend of myth, religion, philosophy and its effect on the history of the western world gave the grounding for the development of modern western philosophical thought of rationalism and reasoning. It also laid foundations for a political system that was soon to dominate the modern world – Democracy.

Works Cited

Berens, E.M. “Myths and Legends of Ancient Greece and Rome”. Project Gutenberg. 2007. Web.

Gillian, Moore and Editors of Time-Life Books. 1988. “ A Soaring Spirit”. A volume of Time-Life Series History of the World. Time-Life Books inc. Time Warner Inc. USA.

Knierim, Thomas. “Pre-Socratic Greek Philosophy”. 2008. Web.

Llyod-Jones, Hugh. 2001. “Ancient Greek Religion”. Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society vol. 145, no. 4. Web.

• Differences in Societies in Different Epochs: BCE and CE
• Western Civilizations and Near East
• The Architectural Significance of Pantheon Dome
• The Pantheon of Rome and the Parthenon of Athens
• The Parthenon and the Pantheon in Their Cultural Context
• Mayan Architecture, Its Meaning and Creators
• Sumer and Akkadian Cities, Towns and Villages, 3,500 - 2,000 BC
• Western Civilizations: Mesopotamia, Egypt, Rome,Greece
• The Culture of Ancient Egypt
• Ubaid and Uruk: Emergence of Mesopotamian Cities
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2021, September 29). Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-mythology-religion-philosophy-and-history/

"Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History." IvyPanda , 29 Sept. 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/greek-mythology-religion-philosophy-and-history/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History'. 29 September.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History." September 29, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-mythology-religion-philosophy-and-history/.

1. IvyPanda . "Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History." September 29, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-mythology-religion-philosophy-and-history/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Greek Mythology, Religion, Philosophy, and History." September 29, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-mythology-religion-philosophy-and-history/.

IvyPanda uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience, enabling functionalities such as:

• Basic site functions
• Ensuring secure, safe transactions
• Secure account login
• Remembering account, browser, and regional preferences
• Remembering privacy and security settings
• Analyzing site traffic and usage
• Personalized search, content, and recommendations
• Displaying relevant, targeted ads on and off IvyPanda

Please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy for detailed information.

Certain technologies we use are essential for critical functions such as security and site integrity, account authentication, security and privacy preferences, internal site usage and maintenance data, and ensuring the site operates correctly for browsing and transactions.

Cookies and similar technologies are used to enhance your experience by:

• Remembering general and regional preferences
• Personalizing content, search, recommendations, and offers

Some functions, such as personalized recommendations, account preferences, or localization, may not work correctly without these technologies. For more details, please refer to IvyPanda's Cookies Policy .

To enable personalized advertising (such as interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. These partners may have their own information collected about you. Turning off the personalized advertising setting won't stop you from seeing IvyPanda ads, but it may make the ads you see less relevant or more repetitive.

Personalized advertising may be considered a "sale" or "sharing" of the information under California and other state privacy laws, and you may have the right to opt out. Turning off personalized advertising allows you to exercise your right to opt out. Learn more in IvyPanda's Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy .

• Bibliography
• More Referencing guides Blog Automated transliteration Relevant bibliographies by topics
• Automated transliteration
• Relevant bibliographies by topics
• Referencing guides