CLA204H5 Lecture : Classical Mythology 2.7.docx
Document Summary
In the ancient greek world cities often had a city-protecting god or hero and a myth which told of the beginning of the city, emphasizing features which were thought to be really important. Highlighting positive elements like good order or natural advantages. Classical athens is renowned today for its achievements in philosophy, literature, and the arts, as well as government structure . C6-c4 athens was a military super-power and cultural hub in greece. Athenians wanted to explain their achievements as descending from great gods and heroes through legends: rich repertoire of myths relating to athens. Legendary heroes of the athenians: first and foremost is theseus, son of aethra + mortal. Athena goddess of wisdom and war, patron of athens. The contest of athens was the contest between athena and poseidon to control athens. They each agreed to give a present to athens and the athenians would choose which one they"d like best.
