View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. As stated in the hymn, who does Ares lead?

2. As stated in The Second Hymn to Dionysus, who is the mother of Dionysus?

3. What name is Herakles also known as?

4. What type of leaves appear as the boat continues to sail while holding Dionysus?

5. When does Hermes reportedly kill a large turtle?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to The Hymn to the Earth, how do the Earth's blessings manifest?

2. What is different about the way The Hymn to Ares begins and what is Ares known for?

3. What happens during and after the "trial" of Hermes?

4. How is Hermes born and raised?

5. How is the birth and childhood of Dionysus described in The Second Hymn to Dionysus?

6. What are the varying lengths of the hymns?

7. What is unique about the length of The Hymn to Hermes and what is Hermes known for?

8. What is Artemis's skill and how is it described?

9. What is the argument between the helmsman and the captain that is described in The Hymn to Dionysus?

10. Based on the story in The Third Hymn to Dionysus, why is Dionysus hidden as a child?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Hymn to Ares introduces a thought provoking theory about war and peace.

1) Describe how The Hymn to Ares is different in style from the other hymns in the collection and the possible reasons why the poet chose to write it in this style.

2) Explain what Ares is known for and why the poet thinks Ares can provide help in gaining courage.

3) Analyze the request made by the poet at the end of The Hymn to Ares and the idea of how fighting wars might lead to peace.

Essay Topic 2

Nature is a major element that is explored in Greek mythology.

1) Explain The Hymn to the Earth and the ways that Earth's blessings are manifested, using the hymn to provide examples of the Earth's characteristics and qualities, as well as what the poet gives her credit for and why.

2) Analyze the metaphors that are used in The Hymn to the Sun and The Hymn to the Moon along with the different powers that both the sun and moon possess.

3) Explain the origin of Castor and Pollux and what their existence means to the Greeks and nature.

Essay Topic 3

Using The Hymn to Hermes as an example, analyze the human element of Greek mythology and why it was necessary in order for people to relate to the stories of the gods. Include an explanation of what happens between Apollo and Hermes after the judgment, the significance or symbolism of the lyre and music, and what Hermes's wand represents.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 858 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample