Ancient Greece -- Religion

The ancient Greeks practiced polytheism, the worship of many gods. These gods had super natural powers, yet looked and acted like humans.

Greeks expressed their religious beliefs through their mythology. Mythology is the collection of myths or stories that tell people how the gods want them to behave. Myths were also used to explain scientific mysteries for ancient Greeks.

Zeus was the supreme ruler of the gods as well as the lord of the sky. He lived on Mount Olympus and threw thunderbolts at those who displeased him. His wife, Hera, protected married women and their households.

It was very important to honor and respect the gods. Some religious festivals included athletic contests. Athletes competed in sports such as boxing, wrestling, and running. They displayed their skills to honor the gods.

The most famous sport event was the Olympic Games which honored Zeus.

Travelers came from all over the Mediterranean to attend the games.

- Began in 776 B.C. to honor the chief God Zeus

- They were held every four years

- During the Olympics all wars were suspended/stopped.

Location of Olympia in Ancient Greece

• Brought city-states together

• Held in the city-state of Olympia every 4 years

• Sacred disk (emblem of the games) was carried to all Greek city-states that were expected to compete

• Messenger delivered the disk and informed everyone when the games would be held

Some events included in the Olympic games were

- Discus

- Running

-Javelin throwing

- boxing

- chariot racing

Winners won crowns made of olive wreaths, food, money, and fame throughout Greece.

• Official prize = wreath of olive leaves

• Real (unofficial) prize = honor

• Winners achieve hero status in their city-state

• Songs and/or sculptures made of the victor to immortalize them

  
  

• City-states agreed to stop fighting during Olympics

• Includes travel time to and from the games

• Could last 1-3 months

• Women were not allowed to watch OR participate at all in the Olympic games!

• Women who broke these rules faced the death penalty if caught!

Women created their own games and called them the Heraean games!

What event do you think is shown on this pot?