Classical Studies 2200 Lecture 1: 1.Introduction

• School: Western University
• Department: Classical Studies
• Course: Classical Studies 2200
• Professor: Aara Suksi

Document Summary

Gilgamesh: king+ hero; from mesopotamia (before greek myths); lots in common with ancient greek heroes. Stamp of gilgamesh shows similarities with heracles supernatural power to deal with wild animals tamers of nature civilizing figures. Heracles (berserker) known for taming lion rep. by wearing lion skin. Heracles vase 510 bce: figure on right is athena (goddess of culture + war) Athena is often seen in company of these civilizing figures; warrior carries a shield with snakes from the head of medusa; medusa was killed by perseus. Achilles: hero greater than other human beings demonstrated through power in battle troy; myths change to reflect culture achilles representation. Heracles overcomes nature while achilles overcomes other warriors. Penelope vase 430 bce: odysseus" wife; she"s the ideal virtuous woman in ancient greece. Vase shows she"s a good woman because she"s shown weaving to make textiles in order to produce wealth for the household, staying home, complacent; standing in front of her is her son.