thesis statement about greek gods

Greek Gods Expository 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

Greek gods are part of the remarkable Greek mythology that forms part of the heritage of humanity. The gods had a life of their own and they preceded humans. In fact, the gods are responsible for the creation of humanity.

The multiplicity of gods in Greek mythology, coupled with their diverse personalities and capabilities created a very rich set of characters for explaining natural occurrences and for teaching moral lessons. This is why the relationships between the Greek gods and human beings was complex. This paper explores the complexities.

Greek gods demanded worship from human beings, which usually included the offering of sacrifices. In the Homeric hymn, one of Greek gods called Demeter, expressly directs people to build a temple and an altar in her honor. Demeter was the god associated with agriculture hence worshiping her assured people of good harvests.

Other gods also demanded human beings to worship them for various favors. For instance, soldiers paid tribute to Athena who was the goddess of battle strategy, military skill, and wisdom. Humans worshipped these gods depending on personal or community needs based on the attributes of the god.

The second aspect of the relationship between the Greek gods and humans is that the gods sought to influence human action to achieve their own “divine” ends. Part of this influence was meting out punishment to human beings who defied divine orders. A famous case in point is the demise of the Odysseus crew that came about after the crew ignored warnings from the gods.

In the same vein, the gods played out the role of rulers of the cosmos, ensuring that the earth worked, as it should have. The gods ensured that justice ensued and that humans related with each other well.

An interesting question relating to the activities of the gods is whether they allowed human beings to operate using free will. The gods gave humans free will, but at various times, they sought to direct the course of history. Usually the gods sought to convince human agents to do their bidding.

For instance, Athena went to Ithaca to convince Telemachus to go on a journey to find his father. Their interaction did not include any coercion or force from Athena. Telemachus took the trip on his own volition. However, the gods had the power to take action when they pleased. Consequently they had the ability to enforce their wishes.

The Greek gods seem to represent various projections of human experiences. Just like all ancient societies, the Greeks used these gods to develop a sense of eternity. The multiplicity of gods reflects not just the social realities of the Greeks but their philosophy on the creation of the world, and their perception of divine order.

According to Greek mythology, first there was chaos, then Gaea (earth), and Eros (desire). Gaea brought Uranus (heaven) and Puntus (The Sea) to the world. This was the attempt by the Greeks to explain the origin of the earth and later the human race. In addition, the myths are full of the passions humans deal with. Each God seems to have a weakness such as jealousy which is a human trait.

Uranus feared competition from his children hence he killed them. In essence, all the gods had times of vulnerability and times of triumph. The detail on the level of development of the personalities of the gods in the myths, gives them human-like appearances, complete with humanoid representation in their sculptures.

• Philosophy & Literature: Mythology Through Gilgamesh
• Traditional Epic Hero in Homer's "The Iliad"
• The Demeter and Persephone Stories
• Odysseus and Athena Comparison as Liars
• Homeric Heroes: Ulysses and Gilgamesh
• The Comparison of Gilgamesh and Odysseus
• The Epic of Gilgamesh
• Achilles Armour
• Power Relations in Greco-Roman Myth
• Ethos, Pathos and Logos in "The Exploitation" by Adam Rulli-Gibbs
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2019, April 20). Greek Gods. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-gods-essay/

"Greek Gods." IvyPanda , 20 Apr. 2019, ivypanda.com/essays/greek-gods-essay/.

IvyPanda . (2019) 'Greek Gods'. 20 April.

IvyPanda . 2019. "Greek Gods." April 20, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-gods-essay/.

1. IvyPanda . "Greek Gods." April 20, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-gods-essay/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Greek Gods." April 20, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/greek-gods-essay/.

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 .

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

Tragic Tales and Epic Adventures: Essay Topics in Greek Mythology

Table of contents

• 1 Tips on Writing an Informative Essay on a Greek Mythical Character
• 2.1 Titles for Hero Essays 
• 2.2 Ancient Greece Research Topics
• 2.3 Common Myth Ideas for Essays
• 2.4 Topics about Greek Gods
• 2.5 Love Topics in the Essay about Greek Mythology

With its rich pantheon of gods, heroes, and timeless tales, Greek mythology has been a source of inspiration and fascination for centuries. From the mighty exploits of Hercules to the cunning of Odysseus, these myths offer a window into ancient Greek culture, values, and understanding of the world. This exploration delves into various aspects of Greek mythology topics, providing a wealth of ideas for a captivating essay. How do myths impact today’s society? Whether you’re drawn to the legendary heroes, the powerful gods, or the intricate relationships within these stories, there’s a trove of ideas to explore in Greek mythology research topics.

Tips on Writing an Informative Essay on a Greek Mythical Character

Crafting an informative essay on a Greek mythical character requires a blend of passionate storytelling, rigorous research, and insightful analysis. Yet, there are some tips you can follow to reach the best result. Read this student essay written about the Greek mythology guide.

• Select a Fascinating Character. Choose a Greek mythical character that genuinely interests you. Your passion for the character will enhance your writing and engage your readers.
• Conduct Thorough Research. Dive into the character’s background, roles in various myths, and their significance in Greek mythology. Use reliable sources such as academic papers, respected mythology books, and scholarly articles to gather comprehensive and accurate information.
• Analyze Characteristics and Symbolism. Explore the deeper meanings behind your character’s actions and traits. Discuss what they symbolize in Greek culture and mythology.
• Use a Clear Structure. Organize your essay logically. Ensure each paragraph flows smoothly to the next, maintaining a coherent and compelling narrative.
• Incorporate Quotes and References. Use quotes from primary sources and reference key scholars to support your points. This adds credibility and depth to your essay.
• Edit and Revise. Finally, thoroughly revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy. A well-edited essay ensures your ideas are conveyed effectively.

By following these tips, you can create a compelling essay that recounts famous myths and explores the rich symbolic and cultural significance of these timeless tales.

Greek Mythology Topics for an Essay

Explore the rich tapestry of Greek mythology ideas with these intriguing essay topics, encompassing legendary heroes, ancient gods, and the timeless themes that have captivated humanity for millennia. Dive into the stories of Hercules, the wisdom of Athena, the complexities of Olympian deities, and the profound lessons embedded in these ancient tales. Each topic offers a unique window into the world of Greek myths, inviting a deep exploration of its cultural and historical significance.

Titles for Hero Essays  

• Hercules: Heroism and Humanity 
• Achilles: The Warrior’s Tragedy
• Odysseus: Cunning over Strength
• Theseus and the Minotaur: Symbolism and Society
• Perseus and Medusa: A Tale of Courage
• Jason and the Argonauts: The Quest for the Golden Fleece
• Atalanta: Challenging Gender Roles
• Ajax: The Unsung Hero of the Trojan War
• Bellerophon and Pegasus: Conquest of the Skies
• Hector: The Trojan Hero
• Diomedes: The Underrated Warrior of the Iliad
• Heracles and the Twelve Labors: A Journey of Redemption
• Orpheus: The Power of Music and Love
• Castor and Pollux: The Gemini Twins
• Philoctetes: The Isolated Warrior

Ancient Greece Research Topics

• The Trojan War: Myth and History. Examining the blending of mythological and historical elements in the story of the Trojan War.
• The Role of Oracles in Ancient Greek Society. Exploring how oracles influenced decision-making and everyday life in Ancient Greece.
• Greek Mythology in Classical Art and Literature. Analyzing the representation and influence of Greek myths in classical art forms and literary works.
• The Historical Impact of Greek Gods on Ancient Civilizations. Investigating how the worship of Greek gods shaped the societal, cultural, and political landscapes of ancient civilizations.
• Mythology’s Influence on Ancient Greek Architecture. Studying the impact of mythological themes and figures on the architectural designs of Ancient Greece.
• Athenian Democracy and Mythology. Exploring the connections between the development of democracy in Athens and the city’s rich mythological traditions.
• Minoan Civilization and Greek Mythology. Delving into the influence of Greek mythology on the Minoan civilization, particularly in their art and religious practices.
• The Mycenaean Origins of Greek Myths. Tracing the roots of Greek mythology back to the Mycenaean civilization and its culture.
• Greek Mythology and the Development of Theater. Discuss how mythological stories and characters heavily influenced ancient Greek plays.
• Olympic Games and Mythological Foundations. Examining the mythological origins of the ancient Olympic Games and their cultural significance.
• Maritime Myths and Ancient Greek Navigation. Investigating how Greek myths reflected and influenced ancient Greek seafaring and exploration.
• The Impact of Hellenistic Culture on Mythology. Analyzing how Greek mythology evolved and spread during the Hellenistic period.
• Alexander the Great and Mythological Imagery. Studying the use of mythological symbolism and imagery in portraying Alexander the Great.
• Greek Gods in Roman Culture. Exploring how Greek mythology was adopted and adapted by the Romans.
• Spartan Society and Mythological Ideals. Examining Greek myths’ role in shaping ancient Sparta’s values and lifestyle.

Common Myth Ideas for Essays

• The Concept of Fate and Free Will in Greek Myths. Exploring how Greek mythology addresses the tension between destiny and personal choice.
• Mythological Creatures and Their Meanings. Analyzing the symbolism and cultural significance of creatures like the Minotaur, Centaurs, and the Hydra.
• The Underworld in Greek Mythology: A Journey Beyond. Delving into the Greek concept of the afterlife and the role of Hades.
• The Role of Women in Greek Myths. Examining the portrayal of female characters, goddesses, and heroines in Greek mythology.
• The Transformation Myths in Greek Lore. Investigating stories of metamorphosis and their symbolic meanings, such as Daphne and Narcissus.
• The Power of Prophecies in Greek Myths. Discussing the role and impact of prophetic declarations in Greek mythological narratives.
• Heroism and Hubris in Greek Mythology. Analyzing how pride and arrogance are depicted and punished in various myths.
• The Influence of Greek Gods in Human Affairs. Exploring stories where gods intervene in the lives of mortals, shaping their destinies.
• Nature and the Gods: Depictions of the Natural World. Examining how natural elements and phenomena are personified through gods and myths.
• The Significance of Sacrifice in Greek Myths. Investigating the theme of voluntary and forced sacrifice in mythological tales.
• Greek Mythology as a Reflection of Ancient Society. Analyzing how Greek myths mirror ancient Greek society’s social, political, and moral values.
• Mythical Quests and Adventures. Exploring the journeys and challenges heroes like Jason, Perseus, and Theseus face.
• The Origins of the Gods in Greek Mythology. Tracing the creation stories and familial relationships among the Olympian gods.
• Lessons in Morality from Greek Myths. Discussing the moral lessons and ethical dilemmas presented in Greek mythology.
• The Influence of Greek Myths on Modern Culture. Examining how elements of Greek mythology continue to influence contemporary literature, film, and art.

Topics about Greek Gods

• Zeus: King of Gods. Exploring Zeus’s leadership in Olympus, his divine relationships, and mortal interactions.
• Athena: Goddess of Wisdom and War. Analyzing Athena’s embodiment of intellect and battle strategy in myths.
• Apollo vs. Dionysus: Contrast of Sun and Ecstasy. Comparing Apollo’s rationality with Dionysus’s chaotic joy.
• Hera: Marriage and Jealousy. Examining Hera’s multifaceted nature, focusing on her matrimonial role and jealous tendencies.
• Poseidon: Ruler of Seas and Quakes. Investigating Poseidon’s dominion over the oceans and seismic events.
• Hades: Lord of the Underworld. Delving into Hades’s reign in the afterlife and associated myths.
• Aphrodite: Essence of Love and Charm. Exploring Aphrodite’s origins, romantic tales, and divine allure.
• Artemis: Protector of Wilderness. Discussing Artemis’s guardianship over nature and young maidens.
• Hephaestus: Craftsmanship and Fire. Analyzing Hephaestus’s skills in metallurgy and his divine role.
• Demeter: Goddess of Harvest and Seasons. Investigating Demeter’s influence on agriculture and seasonal cycles.
• Ares: Embodiment of Warfare. Delving into Ares’s aggressive aspects and divine relations.
• Hermes: Divine Messenger and Trickster. Exploring Hermes’s multifaceted roles in Olympian affairs.
• Dionysus: Deity of Revelry and Wine. Analyzing Dionysus’s cultural impact and festive nature.
• Persephone: Underworld’s Queen. Discussing Persephone’s underworld journey and dual existence.
• Hercules: From Hero to God. Examining Hercules’s legendary labors and deification.

Love Topics in the Essay about Greek Mythology

• Orpheus and Eurydice’s Tragedy. Analyzing their poignant tale of love, loss, and music.
• Aphrodite’s Influence. Exploring her role as the embodiment of love and beauty.
• Zeus’s Love Affairs. Investigating Zeus’s romantic escapades and their effects.
• Eros and Psyche’s Journey. Delving into their story of trust, betrayal, and love’s victory.
• Love and Desire in Myths. Discussing the portrayal and impact of love in Greek myths.
• Hades and Persephone’s Love. Analyzing their complex underworld relationship.
• Paris and Helen’s Romance. Examining their affair’s role in sparking the Trojan War.
• Pygmalion and Galatea’s Tale. Exploring the theme of transcendent artistic love.
• Alcestis and Admetus’s Sacrifice. Investigating the implications of Alcestis’s self-sacrifice.
• Apollo’s Unrequited Love for Daphne. Discussing unreciprocated love and transformation.
• Hercules and Deianira’s Tragic Love. Exploring their love story and its tragic conclusion.
• Jason and Medea’s Turmoil. Analyzing their intense, betrayal-marred relationship.
• Cupid and Psyche’s Resilience. Delving into the strength of their love.
• Baucis and Philemon’s Reward. Exploring their love’s reward by the gods.
• Achilles and Patroclus’s Bond. Discussing their deep connection and its wartime impact.

Readers also enjoyed

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Literature Review — Greek Gods Mythology

Greek Gods Mythology

• Categories: Art History History of Taekwondo Literature Review

About this sample

Words: 525 |

Published: Mar 16, 2024

Words: 525 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

The origins of the gods, the complex relationships of the gods, the impact on art, literature, and society.

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

Verified writer

• Expert in: Arts & Culture Life Literature

+ 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

2 pages / 780 words

4 pages / 1718 words

3 pages / 1665 words

4 pages / 1709 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 Literature Review

Dead End in Norvelt is a novel by Jack Gantos that follows the story of a young boy named Jack Gantos, who is grounded for the entire summer after accidentally shooting off his father’s Japanese sniper rifle. Set in the [...]

The Crusades, which spanned from the 11th to the 13th century, were a series of religious conflicts between Christians and Muslims over the Holy Land. These clashes have been hailed by many as a significant turning point in [...]

Joseph W. Kariuki's "A Meeting In The Dark" is a thought-provoking and complex story that delves into themes of cultural conflict, identity, and power dynamics. The story follows the protagonist, Githaiga, as he navigates the [...]

"The Race" is a powerful poem that delves into the complexities of identity, race, and societal expectations. Written by an unknown author, the poem explores the idea of race as a construct that can both divide and unite [...]

William Paley begins his “Argument from Design” by enumerating key differences between two obviously dissimilar objects—a stone and a watch. For the sake of meaningful contrast, Paley emphasizes three distinguishing properties [...]

“The normal is the good smile in a child's eyes. It is also the dead stare in a million adults.” – Peter Schaffer As the deeply conflicted psychiatrist Dysart, Richard Griffiths delivers this line with wonderful restraint to [...]

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

Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History Essays

Greek gods and religious practices.

Terracotta aryballos (oil flask)

Signed by Nearchos as potter

Bronze Herakles

Bronze mirror with a support in the form of a nude girl

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

Attributed to Lydos

Terracotta kylix (drinking cup)

Attributed to the Amasis Painter

Terracotta Panathenaic prize amphora

Attributed to the Euphiletos Painter

Terracotta amphora (jar)

Signed by Andokides as potter

Attributed to the Kleophrades Painter

Terracotta statuette of Nike, the personification of victory

Terracotta lekythos (oil flask)

Attributed to the Tithonos Painter

Attributed to the Villa Giulia Painter

Attributed to the Nikon Painter

Terracotta stamnos (jar)

Attributed to the Menelaos Painter

Attributed to the Sabouroff Painter

Attributed to the Phiale Painter

Marble head of a woman wearing diadem and veil

Terracotta oinochoe: chous (jug)

Attributed to the Meidias Painter

Ganymede jewelry

Set of jewelry

Gold stater

Marble head of Athena

Bronze statue of Eros sleeping

Ten marble fragments of the Great Eleusinian Relief

Limestone statue of a veiled female votary

Marble head of a deity wearing a Dionysiac fillet

Marble statue of an old woman

Marble statuette of young Dionysos

Colette Hemingway Independent Scholar

Seán Hemingway Department of Greek and Roman Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

October 2003

The ancient Greeks worshipped many gods, each with a distinct personality and domain. Greek myths explained the origins of the gods and their individual relations with mankind. The art of Archaic and Classical Greece illustrates many mythological episodes, including an established iconography of attributes that identify each god. There were twelve principal deities in the Greek pantheon. Foremost was Zeus, the sky god and father of the gods, to whom the ox and the oak tree were sacred; his two brothers, Hades and Poseidon, reigned over the Underworld and the sea, respectively. Hera, Zeus’s sister and wife, was queen of the gods; she is frequently depicted wearing a tall crown, or polos. Wise Athena, the patron goddess of Athens ( 1996.178 ), who typically appears in full armor with her aegis (a goatskin with a snaky fringe), helmet, and spear ( 07.286.79 ), was also the patroness of weaving and carpentry. The owl and the olive tree were sacred to her. Youthful Apollo ( 53.224 ), who is often represented with the kithara , was the god of music and prophecy. Judging from his many cult sites, he was one of the most important gods in Greek religion. His main sanctuary at Delphi, where Greeks came to ask questions of the oracle, was considered to be the center of the universe ( 63.11.6 ). Apollo’s twin sister Artemis, patroness of hunting, often carried a bow and quiver. Hermes ( 25.78.2 ), with his winged sandals and elaborate herald’s staff, the kerykeion, was the messenger god. Other important deities were Aphrodite, the goddess of love; Dionysos, the god of wine and theater ; Ares, the god of war ; and the lame Hephaistos, the god of metalworking. The ancient Greeks believed that Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in mainland Greece, was the home of the gods.

Ancient Greek religious practice, essentially conservative in nature, was based on time-honored observances, many rooted in the Bronze Age (3000–1050 B.C.), or even earlier. Although the Iliad and the Odyssey of Homer, believed to have been composed around the eighth century B.C., were powerful influences on Greek thought, the ancient Greeks had no single guiding work of scripture like the Jewish Torah, the Christian Bible, or the Muslim Qu’ran. Nor did they have a strict priestly caste. The relationship between human beings and deities was based on the concept of exchange: gods and goddesses were expected to give gifts. Votive offerings, which have been excavated from sanctuaries by the thousands, were a physical expression of thanks on the part of individual worshippers.

The Greeks worshipped in sanctuaries located, according to the nature of the particular deity, either within the city or in the countryside. A sanctuary was a well-defined sacred space set apart usually by an enclosure wall. This sacred precinct, also known as a temenos, contained the temple with a monumental cult image of the deity, an outdoor altar, statues and votive offerings to the gods, and often features of landscape such as sacred trees or springs. Many temples benefited from their natural surroundings, which helped to express the character of the divinities. For instance, the temple at Sounion dedicated to Poseidon, god of the sea, commands a spectacular view of the water on three sides, and the Parthenon on the rocky Athenian Akropolis celebrates the indomitable might of the goddess Athena.

The central ritual act in ancient Greece was animal sacrifice, especially of oxen, goats, and sheep. Sacrifices took place within the sanctuary, usually at an altar in front of the temple, with the assembled participants consuming the entrails and meat of the victim. Liquid offerings, or libations ( 1979.11.15 ), were also commonly made. Religious festivals, literally feast days, filled the year. The four most famous festivals, each with its own procession, athletic competitions ( 14.130.12 ), and sacrifices, were held every four years at Olympia, Delphi, Nemea, and Isthmia. These Panhellenic festivals were attended by people from all over the Greek-speaking world. Many other festivals were celebrated locally, and in the case of mystery cults , such as the one at Eleusis near Athens, only initiates could participate.

Hemingway, Colette, and Seán Hemingway. “Greek Gods and Religious Practices.” In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History . New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/grlg/hd_grlg.htm (October 2003)

Further Reading

Burkert, Walter. Greek Religion . Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press, 1985.

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

Pedley, John Griffiths. Greek Art and Archaeology . 2d ed. New York: Harry N. Abrams, 1998.

Pomeroy, Sarah B., et al. Ancient Greece: A Political, Social, and Cultural History . New York: Oxford University Press, 1999.

Robertson, Martin. A History of Greek Art . 2 vols. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1975.

Additional Essays by Seán Hemingway

• Hemingway, Seán. “ Art of the Hellenistic Age and the Hellenistic Tradition .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Greek Hydriai (Water Jars) and Their Artistic Decoration .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Hellenistic Jewelry .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Intellectual Pursuits of the Hellenistic Age .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Mycenaean Civilization .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Africans in Ancient Greek Art .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Ancient Greek Colonization and Trade and their Influence on Greek Art .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ The Art of Classical Greece (ca. 480–323 B.C.) .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Athletics in Ancient Greece .” (October 2002)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ The Rise of Macedon and the Conquests of Alexander the Great .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ The Technique of Bronze Statuary in Ancient Greece .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Cyprus—Island of Copper .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Music in Ancient Greece .” (October 2001)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Etruscan Art .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Prehistoric Cypriot Art and Culture .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Seán. “ Minoan Crete .” (October 2002)

Additional Essays by Colette Hemingway

• Hemingway, Colette. “ Art of the Hellenistic Age and the Hellenistic Tradition .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Greek Hydriai (Water Jars) and Their Artistic Decoration .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Hellenistic Jewelry .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Intellectual Pursuits of the Hellenistic Age .” (April 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Mycenaean Civilization .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Retrospective Styles in Greek and Roman Sculpture .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Africans in Ancient Greek Art .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Ancient Greek Colonization and Trade and their Influence on Greek Art .” (July 2007)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Architecture in Ancient Greece .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Art of Classical Greece (ca. 480–323 B.C.) .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Labors of Herakles .” (January 2008)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Athletics in Ancient Greece .” (October 2002)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Rise of Macedon and the Conquests of Alexander the Great .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Technique of Bronze Statuary in Ancient Greece .” (October 2003)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Women in Classical Greece .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Cyprus—Island of Copper .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Music in Ancient Greece .” (October 2001)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Ernest Hemingway (1899–1961) and Art .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Etruscan Art .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Prehistoric Cypriot Art and Culture .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Sardis .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Medicine in Classical Antiquity .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Southern Italian Vase Painting .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Theater in Ancient Greece .” (October 2004)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ The Kithara in Ancient Greece .” (October 2002)
• Hemingway, Colette. “ Minoan Crete .” (October 2002)

Related Essays

• The Art of Classical Greece (ca. 480–323 B.C.)
• Athenian Vase Painting: Black- and Red-Figure Techniques
• Death, Burial, and the Afterlife in Ancient Greece
• Music in Ancient Greece
• Theater in Ancient Greece
• Africans in Ancient Greek Art
• Architecture in Ancient Greece
• Early Cycladic Art and Culture
• Eastern Religions in the Roman World
• Etruscan Language and Inscriptions
• Greek Hydriai (Water Jars) and Their Artistic Decoration
• Greek Terracotta Figurines with Articulated Limbs
• The Julio-Claudian Dynasty (27 B.C.–68 A.D.)
• The Labors of Herakles
• Medicine in Classical Antiquity
• Medusa in Ancient Greek Art
• Mystery Cults in the Greek and Roman World
• Retrospective Styles in Greek and Roman Sculpture
• The Roman Banquet
• Roman Sarcophagi
• Southern Italian Vase Painting
• The Symposium in Ancient Greece
• Time of Day on Painted Athenian Vases
• Women in Classical Greece

List of Rulers

• List of Rulers of the Ancient Greek World
• List of Rulers of the Roman Empire
• Ancient Greece, 1000 B.C.–1 A.D.
• Ancient Greece, 1–500 A.D.
• Southern Europe, 2000–1000 B.C.
• Southern Europe, 8000–2000 B.C.
• 10th Century B.C.
• 1st Century B.C.
• 2nd Century B.C.
• 2nd Millennium B.C.
• 3rd Century B.C.
• 3rd Millennium B.C.
• 4th Century B.C.
• 5th Century B.C.
• 6th Century B.C.
• 7th Century B.C.
• 8th Century B.C.
• 9th Century B.C.
• Ancient Greek Art
• Aphrodite / Venus
• Archaic Period
• Ares / Mars
• Artemis / Diana
• Athena / Minerva
• Balkan Peninsula
• Classical Period
• Deity / Religious Figure
• Dionysus / Bacchus
• Eros / Cupid
• Geometric Period
• Greek and Roman Mythology
• Greek Literature / Poetry
• Herakles / Hercules
• Hermes / Mercury
• Homer’s Iliad
• Homer’s Odyssey
• Literature / Poetry
• Musical Instrument
• Mycenaean Art
• Mythical Creature
• Nike / Victory
• Plucked String Instrument
• Poseidon / Neptune
• Religious Art
• Satyr / Faun
• String Instrument
• Zeus / Jupiter

Artist or Maker

• Achilles Painter
• Amasis Painter
• Andokides Painter
• Euphiletos Painter
• Kleophrades Painter
• Lysippides Painter
• Meidias Painter
• Menelaos Painter
• Nikon Painter
• Phiale Painter
• Sabouroff Painter
• Tithonos Painter
• Villa Giulia Painter

Online Features

• 82nd & Fifth: “Enamored” by Seán Hemingway
• Connections: “Motherhood” by Jean Sorabella
• Connections: “Olympians” by Gwen Roginsky and Ana Sofia Meneses