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

Short Answer Questions

1. Who is judging Hermes for his crimes?

2. According to The Second Hymn to Dionysus, who is the father of Dionysus?

3. How does the poet describe the cowardice he would like to "shake off" in The Hymn to Ares?

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

5. What animal does Dionysus turn into while on board the ship?

Short Essay Questions

1. What other name is Herakles known as, and how is he born?

2. How does Hermes invent the lyre?

3. What is one of the theories for why some of the hymns are so short?

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

5. What are the varying lengths of the hymns?

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

7. How long ago was the collection of The Homeric Hymns formed, and how many songs were compiled?

8. What interesting request does the poet have for Ares?

9. As explained in the Introduction, what is the purpose of The Homeric Hymns?

10. How does Dionysus free himself from the crew of the sailing boat?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe Hestia's presence and the importance of it as it relates to both the immortal and mortal. In addition, compare Hestia's involvement in Greek mythology with the other gods and goddesses, and explain why she is considered to hold so much power.

Essay Topic 2

Compare Zeus and Poseidon in terms of characteristics, skills, reputation, and influence. Also, explain some of the possible reasons why the hymns for both Zeus and Poseidon might have been so short. Use The Hymn to Zeus and The Hymn to Poseidon as a reference to support your analysis.

Essay Topic 3

The adventures of Herakles are presented in The Hymn to Herakles.

1) Describe the origin of Herakles, and the recurring theme that it reflects.

2) Explain why Herakles is known for his strength by including examples of the feats in The Hymn to Herakles.

3) Describe how Herakles proves himself and the way he is ultimately rewarded.

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