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The GreeksMythology NotesI. What is mythology?A subgenre of fictional literatureA story written by ancient people of Greece and Rome

Why were myths written?To explain the world, seasons, weather, origins, good, evil, death, animals, and peopleII. Characteristics of myths* Contain gods, goddesses, & living thingsMyths* Focus on abstract human qualities (love, justice, wisdom)

Myths* Focus on forces of nature (wind, fire, water, earthquakes)

Myths* Explain world origins (according to some Greeks/Romans)

THE OLYMPIANS12 most powerful, supreme gods and goddessesResided at Mount OlympusRuled by Zeus, king of the godsIII. Ancient GreeceGreeks raised livestockGreeks farmed for a livingSea trade brought income to the GreeksNames of gods & goddesses were represented by forces of natureAncient Greece was located in the Mediterranean SeaGreece consisted of over 2,000 islands and a mainland peninsulaNatural disasters were prominent Lacked technologyAthens was rich from sea trade

Beauty arose from craftsmen and architectureArtists, authors, and writers flooded Greece

IV. The Golden AgeMost famous period of ancient Greece history46 year period (477-431 B.C.)1st Age- perfection; ended with great fire2nd Age- Less perfect; ended with great flood3rd Age- included Zeus (King of Gods) & Prometheus