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Chapter 6 Section 2 Review Questions
Greek, Religion, Philosophy, and Literature
1. Why were the years between 479 B.C. and 431 B.C. called the Golden Age
of Athens?
The years between 479 B.C. and 431 B.C. were called the Golden Age because
Athens became wealthy and made amazing achievements in arts, philosophy, and
literature. The Parthenon was built to honor the goddess Athena. The first dramas
were written for entertainment. Comedies made fun of popular people and
politicians. Tragedies usually ended up in disaster for the main character. Many
philosophers used reasoning to understand natural events. For example, Thales
believed everything was made from water. Democritus believed everything was
made of atoms. Socrates used questioning to get people to look for the true
meanings of justice and courage and to deeper understand their beliefs. Democracy
also reached its highest point. Pericles, a famous Greek leader, helped to reform
and improve this form of government in which citizens govern themselves.
2. During the Golden Age of Greece, how did Athens gain its wealth?
During the Golden Age, Athens gained its wealth in several ways. One was through
silver that was mined by slaves. Another was through trade. Last was tribute, which
was money, paid to Athens by its allies. These all contributed to Athens’ wealth.
3. Who was Pericles and what were some of Pericles’ accomplishments?
Pericles was a member of an aristocratic family who supported democracy, was a
great speaker, and cared very much for Athens. Some of his accomplishments were
that he introduced reforms that strengthened democracy. He became leader of the
democratic group, and was the most powerful man in Athenian politics. He made it
possible for salary to be paid to its officials, which allowed poor citizens to hold
public office. He made Athens a beautiful city by rebuilding the acropolis, and
created new buildings to glorify the city.
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4. What is the Parthenon?
The Parthenon is a temple built to honor the goddess, Athena. It was thought to be
her home on earth. It was made of marble and designed with columns and a large,
40 foot, statue of the goddess.
5. What was the goal of Greek art?
The goal of Greek art was to present images of human perfection in a balanced and
orderly way. Real people and animals would not look like these sculptures.
6. What was the main difference between Greek gods and humans?
The main difference between Greek gods and humans was that gods were immortal,
were in perfect form, and had awesome power, and humans were mortal, meaning
they will eventually die.
7. What did the philosophers believe that was different from most Greeks?
Philosophers believed that people could use the mind and reason to understand
natural events which was different than most Greeks who believed that gods were the
source of all natural events.
8. Why were some Athenians frightened by Socrates?
Some Athenians were frightened by Socrates because he questioned the values and
beliefs of the Athenians. He often showed them that they didn’t know what they were
talking about. He was accused of dishonoring the gods and misleading young
people.
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