Greek GiftsChapter 9 Lesson 2

Describe how Greek mythology affected the arts and sciences of the ancient Greeks.

Explain what ideas and beliefs shaped cultural achievements in Athens.

Objectives

Ancient Greeks made lasting contributions in the arts and architecture

Scholars have learned about Greek life by examining realistic works of art

Many modern buildings use Greek ideas of architecture

Art and Architecture

Greek literature became the foundation of literature in many later Western cultures

Many English words come from Greek literature

Greek theatre included comedies and tragedies

Literature and Theatre

Greek ideas led to the dawn of rational, or logical, thought in science, mathematics, history and philosophy

Greeks followed scientific methods that are still used today

Science, Mathematics, and History

Greek philosopher and mathematician, inventor of geometry

Pythagoras

Greek philosopher who taught by asking questions

Taught Plato Known for his contribution in the study of

ethics

Socrates

Greek physician known as the Father of Medicine

Hippocrates

Greek philosopher, student of Socrates, and teacher of Aristotle

Studied law, politics and education

Plato

Greek philosopher and tutor of Alexander the Great

Considered one of the greatest thinkers of all time

Taught by Plato Advanced studies in science

Aristotle

Socrates, Plato and Aristotle were teachers and philosophers who lived in Athens

Their work laid the foundation for later philosophers

Philosophy and Teaching

The ancient Greeks made many lasting contributions

Greek literature, including mythology, poetry, and plays, continues to influence our literature and language today

The Greeks also challenged the ideas of their times in science, history, medicine, mathematics, and philosophy

Summary

How does Greek literature of Homer influence our literature and movies today?◦ We use the main themes of the Odyssey in literature and movies

What contributions did Herodotus and Thucydides make to the recording of history?◦ Both wrote about different viewpoints. Herodotus collected data

and drew conclusions, while Thucydides wrote without personal opinion.

Why did Athenian leaders dislike Socrates?◦ He openly criticized their leadership

What effect did Greek mythology have on art and architecture?◦ Greeks built temples to honor their gods, created statues of their

gods, and painted scenes from Greek mythology

Reading Check Questions