ANCIENT GREECE
A look at
Beliefs and Customs
The Gods of Greece
 The Greeks were polytheistic-they believed in
many gods.
 The Greeks believed the gods were involved in
people’s lives.
 The gods were believed to have both divine and
human qualities.
 The gods were powerful and could shape human
events.
A Continuing Look at the Gods
of Greece
 The gods were believed to
show a wide range of
human emotions.
 They constantly competed
with one another.
 There were twelve most
important gods and
goddesses who lived on
Mt. Olympus.
The Twelve Olympian
Gods and Goddesses
 Zeus (Ruler of Olympus)
 Hera
 Aphrodite
 Poseidon
 Apollo
 Artemis
 Ares
 Hephaestus
 Hermes
 Demeter
 Hestia
 Athena
Myths
 Were about the gods and
goddesses
 Created to explain the
creation of the world and
human beings
 Often explain natural
occurrences such as the
changing of the seasons
REFLECTION I
On a piece of paper separate from your notes, answer
the following:
 Describe what Greek religion was like. Be sure to
include the appropriate name for it!
 How were the Greek myths and religion
connected?
Honoring the Gods
 Each city had a special
god or goddess to protect
it.
 Statues and temples were
created for the gods.
 Certain days of each
month were dedicated to
honoring different gods.
Festivals of the Gods
 Games





Foot races
Wrestling
Long jump
Discus throw
Javelin throw
 Processions
 Poetry recitals
REFLECTION II
On your separate piece of paper, answer the
following:
 Name 3 ways the Greeks honored their gods.
 What was the purpose of the Olympics?
Early Greek Literature
 Fables – A short story, usually involving
animals, that teaches a moral.

Aesop
Early Greek Literature
Continued
 Epic poems – A long poem that tells the
story of a hero.

Homer
 Illiad
 Odyssey
REFLECTION III
Working with a partner, complete the following:
 In 10 words or less explain the differences
between an epic poem and a fable.
 ALL REFLECTIONS MUST BE TURNED IN
TO MRS. R ON YOUR WAY OUT.
LONG TERM PROJECT
 On your own, think of the 12 Olympic gods and
goddesses.
 Decide on three that you would like to learn more
about.
 Write your top three choices in order of interest
down on a piece of paper with YOUR NAME on
it. Hand it to Mrs. R on your way out.