Mythology

2012-02-14T14:25:00.003-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
We completed the learning more about Cassandra, Ajax (the lesser), Ajax (the greater), Patroclus, Hector

HECTOR

1. "His glancing helm was everywhere and one gallant warrior after another fell beneath his terrible bronze spear. When evening ended the battle, the Trojans had driven the Greeks back almost to their ships."

2. "Apollo forbade Hector to enter upon a contest with Achilles, but when the two heroes met, they were protected by Apollo and Athena. The Trojans fled, but Hector, although called back by his parents in the most imploring terms, remained and awaited Achilles."

1."If I kill you, I will give you back to your friends and you do the same for me."

2. "My doom has come upon me; let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first do some great thing that may be told among men hereafter."

1. Same as b2

2. Same as b1

Odysseus, King of Ithaca, "inventor" of the Trojan Horse

B1:1."When the moment came to stand by his sacred oath, Odysseus pretended to be mad, as it had been revealed to him in a prophecy that should he go to war, he would not return for twenty years. His duplicity was reveal when Palemedes placed Odysseus' son, Telemachus, in front of the plough. Odysseus avoided the child, proving he was of reasonable mind. He was compelled to join Menelaus' army.

2. "Once at war he proved to be a shrewd and wise general. In Greek myths the idea of the Wooden Horse, which defeated the Trojans and led to the destruction of the city, is Odysseus' idea."

B2:1. "Renowned for his eloquent and persuasive speaking, Odysseus was called upon many times to give advice. Although he fought bravely he preferred strategy to heroics."
2. "...if anything went wrong...the men inside the wooden horse would surely die. Odysseus, as can be readily believed, had not overlooked this fact....he was prepared."

Wednesday, February 8th and 10th, 2012

2012-02-08T21:00:00.005-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I thoroughly enjoy the moments in class when you read from The Iliad, as the story becomes genuine and you clearly make a connection with it. I valued listening to your performances....well done!

We discussed Menelaus, Agamemnon, Clytemnestra and Iphigenia today in class.

Menelaus, King of Sparta/Husband to Helen

B1:
1."Hear me also! This touches me most clearly. My mind is that the Acheans and the Trojans should now be reconciled. You have suffered enough this quarrel of mine and Paris. Call his grace, King Priam, as a witness, and we do not wish to violate this old man, he looks both before and behind, to see that the best is done for both sides."
2. " Paris struck first, but Menelaus caught the swift spear on his shield then hurled his own. It rent Paris' but did not wound him. Menelaus drew his sword, his only weapon now, but as he did so it fell from his hand broken. Undaunted though unarmed he leaped upon Paris and seizing him...he would have dragged him to the Greeks victoriously if it had not been for Aphrodite saving him. "

B2:
1. "Menelaus and Helen received him graciously as their guest. The ties between guest and host were strong. Each was bound to help and never harm the other. But Paris broke that bond. Menelaus trusting completely to it left Paris in his home and went off to Crete."
2. "Later after Paris' death, the Trojans gave Helen to his brother Deiphobus, in whose house, on the night of the fall of Troy, Menelaus found her. He had meant to kill her on the spot, but her beauty and Aphrodite's power deterred him."

B4:
1. "Menelaus saw who was making the challenge and was as glad as a lion coming on the carcass of a wild goat....He stood and looked at his rival with contempt."
2. Same as the second quote for B1..refer to the second quote for B1.

Burial mask discovered by Henrik Scheilmann. Scheilmann thought he had discovered the mask of Agamemnon. He was actually incorrect, as the funeral mask is several hundred years older than the Agamemnon of history.

B1:
1. "Artemis was so angry. One of her beloved wild creatures, a hare, had been slain by the Greeks, together with her young, and the only way to create the winds and ensure a safe voyage to Troy was to appease her by sacrificing to her a royal maiden, Iphigenia....He dared the deed, slaying his child to help a war."
2. "Agamemnon, in Greek Mythology, was King of Mycenae, and a commander of the Greek forces in the Trojan War. When the Greeks had assembled at Aulis for their voyage to Troy they were held back by adverse winds. Agamemnon had killed one of Artemis' sacred hares and the young; she was angry with Agamemnon's arrogance, so she caused the winds to blow unceasingly. To punish Agamemnon, she required the sacrifice of his eldest daughter Iphigenia. "
B2:
1. ""Agamemnon sent a letter to Clytemnestra and their child, Iphigenia, asking them to come and join them at Aulis, where Iphigenia he said was going to be married to the great Achilles."
2. "He insulted the goddess Artemis by bragging that he was a better hunter than she and by killing a sacred hare. As punishment, Artemis caused the winds to blow so hard that the Greek fleet could not set sail."

B4:
1. "Agamemnon had been forewarned about the danger of returning home with Cassandra, yet his pride blinded him and he thought himself invinsible. He was vulnerable because he refused to listen to Cassandra, so Clytemnestra killed him."
2. Same as the second quote for B2

Clytemnestra, Queen of Mycenae, wife to Agamemnon, mother to Iphigenia, sister to Helen of Sparta

B1:
1. " She saw no reason to explain her act or excuse it. She was not a murderer in her own eyes, she was an executioner. She had punished and murdered the murderer of his own child."
2. "Dark red stains were on her dress, her hands, her face, yet she herself looked unshaken, strongly sure of herself...It was his blood that stained her dress and face and she was glad."
B2:
1: Same quote as b1
2: Same quote as b1
B4:
1. Same quote as b1
2. "Here lies my husband dead, struck down justly by my hand."

Sacrifice of Iphigenia, daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra

B1:
1. "When she came to her wedding she was carried to the alter to be killed by her father."
2. "She would only send a favorable wind if the king propitiated her by offering up Iphigenia, the most beautiful of his daughters, as a sacrifice to the goddess."

B2:
1. Same as B1
2. "Iphigenia was a tragic heroine. She was the first person to have her life flipped upside down because of the Trojan War and it was her death which allowed the Greek fleet to set sail for Troy. Iphigenia was extremely brave and she is the reason why the entire war was able to continue."

B4:

1. same as b1

Journal #9 "Clytemnestra's Defense"

Do you agree with Clytemnestra's defense that "She is not a murderer but an executioner." According to Clytemnestra, Agamemnon deserved to be removed from the world because he possessed no likeable traits. He killed Cytemnestra's first husband, Tantalus, and their child. Then he proceeded to sacrifice Iphigenia to Artemis.

Is Clytemnestra's act justified? Consider the following abstract regarding the Greek play,"Agamemnon," by Euripides.

"Without a hint of shame, the Queen describes how she killed Agamemnon with an ax, after using a heavy net to trap him in his bath. She tells the Chorus that he was evil and deserved to die. They declare that she will be driven out of Mycenae and shunned by all men for her crime. She rebuffs their reproach by pointing out their hypocrisy; none of them protested when Agamemnon killed her innocent daughter, Iphigenia. The murder of her husband is justified, she insists, because it avenges his crime. Now Agamemnon can lie dead alongside Cassandra, who shared his bed."

February 6th, 2012

2012-02-08T20:56:00.002-07:00

Monday, February 6th, 2012

Introduction to PRIAM, PARIS and HELEN

First day of Iliad Character Presentations

Dear Mythology Kids,

For Monday, February 6th we discussed three characters. These included Priam, Helen, and Paris. I have included an image of each character below, and the quotes that were chosen by the groups for each class. I would review the quotes for EACH CLASS, as doing so will give you insights into each character, and the QUOTES will appear on your "Iliad Quest."

HOMEWORK:

Please read/annotate/notate the information entitled "The Iliad" for Wednesday. Please include 7-10 for the first page and 5-7 for the second. All the colors may be used for this assignment.

Priam, King of Troy, begging Achilles to relinquish the body of Hector

B1/B2:
1. "I have endured what no other mortal on the face of the earth has yet endured, to reach forth my hand to the face of him that has slain my sons."
2. " So accompanied the old man past the guards and came into the presence of the man who had killed and maltreated his son. He clasped his knees and kissed his hands and as he did so, Achilles felt awe and so did all the other there....."
B4:
1. "Priam was killed by Neopotolemus, the son of Achilles. Achilles had spared Priam, but Achilles' son struck him down before the eyes of his wife and daughters."
2. ""In Greek Mythology, Priam was the last king of Troy, a ruler who witnessed the destruction of his city in the Trojan War. His son Paris caused the war, while another son, Hector, became the greatest Trojan hero during the long struggle with the Greeks."

Paris, Prince of Troy

B1:
1. "Hera promised to make him Lord of Europe and Asia; Athena, that he would lead the Trojans to victory against the Greeks and lay Greece in ruins; Aphrodite, that the fairest woman in all the world would be his."
2. "Paris, a weakling and something of a coward, too, as later events showed, chose the last."
B2:
1. "Paris himself, who had not fought at all, except to throw his spear, she caught up in a cloud and took him back to Helen."
2. "His single combat with Menelaus, Helen's husband, was suppose to have settled the outcome of the whole war. Instead it revealed Paris as a coward, who only escaped through the intervention of Aphrodite."
B4:
1. "In Sparta, Menelaus, husband of Helen, treated Paris as a royal guest. However, when Menelaus left Sparta for a funeral, Paris abducted Helen and also carried off much of Menelaus' wealth."
2. "What men care for most was set before him. Hera promised to make him Lord of Europe and Asia; Athena, that he would lead the Trojans to victory against the Greeks and lay Greece in ruins; Aphrodite, that the fairest woman in all the world should be his. Paris, a weakling and something of a coward, too, as later events showed, chose the last. He gave Aphrodite the golden apple."

Helen, "the face that launched a thousand ships"

B1:

1. "Then Priam brought Hector home, mourned in Troy as never another, even Helen wept. 'The other Trojans upbraided me, ' she said, 'but always I had comfort from you through your gentleness of spirit and your kind words. You were only my friend."

2. "The most fascinating things about Helen was her story. It was far better than she was. We do not see any real character development in her and have to regard her as a a pawn of the gods. The larger story is involved with the people around her, their rise and fall. She herself seemed oblivious to the horrors that surrounded her."

1. "If only death had pleased me then, grim death, that day I followed your son to Troy, forsaking my marriage bed, my kinsmen and my children."

2. "Never set food on Mt. Olympus ...never! ---suffer Paris, protect Paris, for eternity....until he makes you his wedded wife---that or his slave. Not I, I'll never go back again. It would be wrong, disgraceful to share that coward's bed once more."

1. "Aphrodite led Paris to Sparta, the home of a Greek prince named Menelaus. Helen, his wife was considered the most beautiful woman in the world. Paris fell in love with Helen and carried her off to Troy."

2. "When Menelaus returned home and discovered Helen gone, he called on the leaders of Greece, who had sworn to support him if necessary. The Greeks organized a great expedition and set sail for Troy. Their arrival at Troy marked the beginning of the Trojan War."

Monday, January 23, 2012

2012-01-23T17:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
What did I miss today?

1. We reviewed the Heracles myth and discussed specific questions.
2. I then distributed the quizzes and each student recorded the particular questions that they are required to answer.
3. JOURNAL #9 "Disastrous Disney"
We watched the frist 15 minutes of Disney's Hercules and identitied errors in relationship to the Hercules myth and errors regarding mythology in general.
4. We began our discussion regarding TROY

Homework:

1. Your Quiz covering Heracles is due on WEDNESDAY If you missed class, please stop by my room so I can give you the particular questions you will be answering.
2. Your mythological allusions quiz that was not completed in class last week is also due on WEDNESDAY. I returned the quz to each student, as we did not have time durng class to complete it. Please make sure you finish it for WEDNESDAY!
3. You will have a quiz on FRIDAY covering the introductory material covering Troy!

In order to be prepared for Friday's quiz, please familiarize yourself with the following:
1.Did the Trojan War actually take place? If so, what was the cause?
2. Why is Henrik Scheilmann important to Troy?
3. Explain Scheilmann's archaeological approach? Why was it inappropriate?
4. How is the "Mound of Hissarlik" significant to Scheilmann?
5. Eris' golden apple....How is it relevant to The Iliad's plot line?
6. How does The Iliad begin?
7. Why are the events within The Iliad relevant to events within The Odyssey?
8. Make sure you can define the term "epic."

THIS IS THE HANDOUT used in our class discussion regarding Homer's Iliad. Please cut and paste it as a Word document and ten place it in your binder. We started working on this in class, but we did not complete it; we will do so on Wed.

Introduction:
What is an epic?

The Iliad is about:

Ilium:

Acheans:

The Odyssey is about:

Did the Trojan War actually take place and what was the cause?

Who discovered the ancient city of Troy?

“Road Map:”

“Schliemann's scar:”

Using a well read copy of The Iliad as his reference guide, he chose a spot on the Asian coast of Turkey called the Mound of Hissarlik, and began digging for the famous city of Troy. In the course of four years, he uncovered nine successive cities built on top of each other. The sixth city he declared the “City of Troy,” or as Schliemann called it the “Burnt City.” Later archaeologists through carbon dating and additional archaeological discoveries, proved that Schliemann's choice was accurate. What was once thought to be myth had been proven historically correct.

What we know about Homer.....

Many scholars have asked the question, “Were the epic poems of The Iliad and The Odyssey written by one poet or were they collective efforts on the part of several poets?” We will never know the answer to this question. Most scholars agree that “a Homer” existed, that he lived in the 8th or 9th century B.C., and that he was a well-known poet. Some references to Homer indicate that he was blind, which has been interpreted as a “sign of his greatness.” We know that Homer had a strong command of the written language, and that at one point he could see. His love for beauty and gory details are too advanced, especially for someone who might have been blind his entire life. He lived about 500 years after the events at Troy; therefore, the story he told was not original with him, but had been passed down in the oral tradition of the times.

Allow me to share two excerpts from The Iliad with you.

“...the spear of bronze went through

Below the brain and shattered the white bones,

Dashed out his teeth, and filled his eyes with blood;

And blood he spurted gaping through his mouth

And nose; and death's dark cloud encompassed him.”

Book XVI, lines 345-350

“Then answered Hector of the flashing helm,

His strength all gone: 'I beg thee by my life,

Thy knees, thy parents, leave me not for dogs

Of the Acheans by the ship to eat,

But rather take abundant stores of bronze and gold-

My king and queenly mother will give it thee-

And render back my body to my home,

So that the Trojans and the Trojans' wives

May give me due meed of fire in death.'

But scowling at him swift Achilles said,

“Do not entreat me, dog, by knees or parents ,

I only wish I had the heart and will

To hack the flesh off thee and eat it raw......”

Book XXII, lines 317-330

Posted by Crampton at 7:09 PM

Thursday, January 19th, 2012

2012-01-19T15:29:00.002-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
I appreciate you venerating our substitute while I was not well. I have included the information for your quiz covering Hercules or is it Heralces on Monday.

Dear Mythology Kids,
If you missed class, we accomplished the following in class:

Don't forget that you will have a QUIZ covering the irony found within the myth of "Heracles," and how those aspects of irony add to the pathos experienced by our hero on Friday!

"How do I prepare for the quiz, Crampton?"

"Make sure you have read the myth of Heracles found on page 166 in your textbook. In addition, review the storyboard that we worked on in class on Thursday.

"Will there be extra credit for this quiz?"

"Absolutely! I have listed the aspects of irony below. Respond to each one as if you were taking the actual quiz. Originally, I was going to have you complete one of the six questions, but I have changed my mind. You will answer two of the six listed. If you review this way, you will clearly be successful, as you will have two of the six included below, you just don't know which two. You are to discuss the irony found in each excerpt from the myth of “Heracles,” and how the irony adds to the pathos experienced by Heracles. Please be thorough in your response; assume that your audience has no schema on the character of Heracles. Cut and paste the questions into a Word document, and then respond to them on your computer.

1.) Athena “found” the infant Heracles outside the walls of Thebes, where Alcmene had abandoned him in fear of Hera’s jealousy. Athena showed the child to Hera and urged the goddess to pity the beautiful child so cruelly neglected.

2.) The goddess drove Heracles temporally mad, and he killed his children, Megara as well—thinking they were either wild beasts or enemies of Thebes. When his sanity returned, Heracles exiled himself from Thebes for his crime. He traveled to Delphi to ask the oracle how best to atone for his crime. The priestess of the oracle instructed Heracles to go to Tiryns and perform any 10 labors devised for him by King Eurystheus.

3.) Eurystheus directed Heracles to kill the Lernaean Hydra (water snake) as his second labor. Heracles slew the beast by chopping off its immortal head and burying the still-hissing head under a rock. Before returning to Tiryns, Heracles dipped his arrows in the poisonous blood of the Hydra. Thereafter, anyone wounded with one of these arrows would die.

4.) The goddess sent two poisonous serpents with flaming eyes to destroy both Heracles and his half-brother Iphicles. Yet the mighty infant seized one in each hand and easily strangled the serpents, thinking they were toys he found great glee in his kill of the snakes.

5.) The perfect host, Admetus entertained his guest while hiding the fact that he was mourning for his wife, Alcestis. When Heracles discovered his host’s secret, he rushed to Alcestis tomb. Upon bringing her back to Admetus, the host promptly died.

6) "He sent his servant home to Deianeira in order to obtain the special ceremonial shirt he wore on these religious occasions. When the servant mentioned to Deianeira that Iole was to accompany Heracles, Deianeira feared that her husband loved the beautiful princess.”

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read "Heracles" pages 166-179

2. Quiz covering Heracles will take place on Monday.

Thursday, January 12th, 2012

2012-01-12T12:06:00.003-07:00

YOUR MOSAICS are BREATHTAKING! I am transfixed by your aesthetic abilities!

If you missed class on Tuesday, January 11th, 2012 you were introduced to the concepts of "Allusion" and "Reference," and the role of mythological allusions and references found in literary work. Please visit with a classmate in order to obtain this information.

I used Icarus as my focus for emphasizing how frequently references and allusions to mythology arise in literary work. This, of course, is due to the fact that universal themes are always prevalent within the myths; therefore, audiences of all types can connect with the themes that are used.

HOMEWORK:

1. Your Mythological Allusions assignment is due on Tuesday., Jan. 17th. If you missed class, please visit with a friend and then stop by and chat with me, so that I can give you the explanation sheets for your assignment.

2012-01-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

We had a history lesson today concerning Theseus and the Minotaur!

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, this is what we did:
1. You had a history lesson on the Minoan culture and their connection to the myth of "Theseus and the Minotaur." Please visit with someone in class, concerning this information.
2. You saw several different images associated with the Minoan culture and how certain practices relate to the myth.
3. Journal #5 "Minoan Culture:Points of Interest"
We viewed a video clip concerning the Minoan culture and recorded a minimum of 10 points that we found engaging.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Theseus and the Minotaur" pgs. 155-165 for FRIDAY.
2. Please read "Daedalus" pgs. 144-145 for FRIDAY, as well.
3. YOUR QUIZ WILL TAKE PLACE ON FRIDAY. You will "be caught in the labyrinth" of T.H.S. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

Thursday, December 8th, 2011

2011-12-08T11:28:00.002-07:00

Welcome to your Mosaic assignment....

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. I introduced the mosaic assignment to each class today.

What is a mosaic? A piece of artwork that is comprised of many different pieces. Please see the examples of mosaics below.

Why were they so important to the ancient Greeks? They took the subjects from their mythology and literally cemented them into mosaic artwork.

Nemean Lion

Demeter

Medusa

I look forward to seeing the subjects you have chosen for your mosaics. For those of you that missed class on today (December 8th), we completed the following:

1. Introduction of your "Mosaic Assignment"

•Your mosaic must be at least 11 x 17 in size

•The subject may be any aspect associated with our study of Classical Mythology (gods, lesser gods, heroes, monsters, and specific myths and their characters)

•You need to be passionate about your selection.

•If you elect to draw the subject, extra-credit will be given

•If your mosaic is larger than the required size, extra-credit will be given

YOUR SUBJECT MUST BE TRACED BY MONDAY, DECEMBER 12th. WHY? Well, I have to return the projectors to the library on Friday afternoon. PLEASE! PLEASE! Have your mosaic traced for Monday!

ANY and ALL supplies you want to use for the mosaic need to be with you on Monday!

Remember that your "Let's Go to the Movies" essay is due on Friday, December 16th!

Tuesday, December 6th, 2011

2011-12-06T11:08:00.002-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

"What did I miss, Crampton?"
"EVERYTHING!"

1. We reviewed the archetypal traits and any questions students had regarding interview between Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers. Students then submitted their archetypal traits handout and interview to me. I, in turn, gave them their take-home quiz.

2. JOURNAL #4: The Archetypal Hero in Spiderman
Student viewed two clips from the film SPIDERMAN. I asked that students identify the aspects depicted in the film that are valid examples regarding the archetype.

3. Students then started on their quiz regarding Perseus and Bellerophon. We did not complete the quiz in class, so time will be given on Thursday.

•Choose a subject for your mosaic and have an overhead transparency prepared of the subject for WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8th. This is an assignment! Your transparency is due at the beginning of class on Wednesday. I gave every student a transparency. I suggest google images for a valid location to look for strong images. Mrs. Gull will make your transparency for you in the copy center, PRIOR to WED. SHE CAN NOT MAKE THE TRANSPARENCY FOR YOU ON WEDNESDAY!

•50 points will be given for each day you come prepared to work on your mosaic. You will be given Friday, Dec. 10th, Tuesday, December 14th and Thursday, December 16th to work on your mosaic in class.

2. We took the quiz concerning "Perseus" in class.

HOMEWORK:
1. Take-home quiz concerning the nine traits of the hero and the interview between Joseph Cambell (mythology expert) and Bill Moyers (NBC corespondent) is due on MONDAY!
2. Mosaic subject on a transparency is due on WED., DEC. 8th.
3. Create a "works cited" page for you mosaic source. If you located your subject from any other source than your mind, then you must reference the source. This is also due on WED.

Friday, December 2nd, 2011

2011-12-02T09:43:00.002-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. We reviewed the practice quiz for Perseus, Achilles, Bellerophone and Theseus. We then tool the actual quiz.

2. We discussed the archetypal Greek hero and the qualities possessed by the hero.

Heroes in ancient Greek were given this title because they experienced what is known as PATHOS, or in other words, they suffered more than other individuals. Through their suffering they became stronger.

•1. They are flawed.

•2. They experience PATHOS, or they suffer more than the average person

•3. They are "Born" : There are two types of "births"

•a. They are conceived in an unusual manner

•b. The hero is "born" when they realize that they possess

•4. They are always assisted by a "goddess" (female character)

•5. They marry/associated with someone that causes them great pain and anguish

•6. They experience what is known as an "IGNITION EVENT." This event is usually, but not always, tragic. It causes them to "ignite" into action.

•7. They are faced with physical and emotional challenges.

•8. Through these challenges they become enlightened (more knowledgeable/physically and emotionally stronger)

•9. Their deaths are usually violent.

•NOTE: Heroes experience at least 6 out of the 9 qualities

ARCHETYPE: This term is important, as you will hear it frequently in Mythology. An archetype is a pattern of traits that characters possess that qualify them as certain character types. For example, characters that possess the traits included above would be qualified as an archetypal hero.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Perseus" pages 146-154 and Bellerophon pages 139-146
2. You will have a quiz covering "Perseus" and Bellerophon on Thursday.
3. Please review the nine character traits, as you will have a "take-home" quiz given to you on Thursday. The quiz is due on Monday. You will submit your nine-trait sheet and your interview prior to taking the quiz.
4. Please read the article entitled "The Hero's Adventure." Annotate/ Notate 7-10/ 1st page/5-7 back page/using ALL your colors for Thursday. I have placed several copies of the article outside my room on the bulletin board. This article will be part of your "take-home" quiz.

DON'T MISS CLASS NEXT WEEK! IF YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE GOING TO BE GONE, THEN PLEASE VISIT WITH ME BEFORE YOUR ABSENCE!

Wednesday, November 30th, 2011

2011-12-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

Your presentations were so well done. I appreciate your attention to detail in sharing the information about your particular characters with us! Your practice quiz for Friday's quiz is located below...good luck!

Cheers,

Crampton

PRACTICE QUIZ:

1. We have never known the benefits of youth. _____________ (we) ____________(hero)
2. I "own" a cement company. ____________ (I) ________________ (hero)
3. "Do you need some thread for your shoe?" _______________(character) ___________ (hero)
4. Because you abandoned my wife, I will make you forget the colors of black and white _____________ (my wife) _____________ (hero)
5. "My love for it is so full of bull." ___________ (associated monster) __________(hero)
6. My son and I are imprisoned in a labyrinth. ________________ (I) _______________ (hero)
7. I excel at creating decoy cows, mazes, and wings. __________( I) ___________(hero)
8. My mother is the guilty party. I am innocent of arrogance towards the gods. __________ (I) _____________ (hero)
9. I taught Achilles the art of warfare. ____________(I) ____________(hero)
10. I helped my true love collect the beauty of Persephone. _____________ (I)
11. I love roller-coasters because I value hanging upside down. __________(I) ____________ (hero)
12. "Nurse" of Contention _____________(nurse) ____________(hero)

Thursday, Nove,ber 17th, 2011

2011-11-17T11:23:00.003-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following characters:
1. Aeolus
2. Circe
3. Tieresis
4. Sirens
5. We started on Scylla and Charybdis
6. We did not complete Calpyso

In order to stay on track, you still need to anticipate a quiz covering the characters associated with Odysseus. Each of you have a copy of the handout, so you have access to the information. I have included a practice quiz for you below.
PRACTICE QUIZ:

1. "Drugs! Enjoy them while they last." ______________
2. "Let's eat human kabobs for dinner. "______________
3. Odysseus and his crew helped themselves to my stores of cheese and milk.____________
4. "Do not eat the cattle of the sun god, Helios." _________________
5. God of the winds. _______________
6. We are "dying" to hear their song. __________________
7. My friend and I have a habit of not keeping our boyfriends for long. I've had six in the last few days, and she's had so many that I've lost count (any order).
7. ________________________ 8. _____________________
9. "You will set him free, or your little island will find itself at the bottom of Poseidon's sea. " ___________________
1o. "Let's see...what animal does your male psyche resemble the most." _____________
11. Comes to her island after the destruction of Odysseus' men. ______________

Take care and enjoy your weekend. I hope to see you on Monday; however, so much depend upon what happens with my mother.

Cheers,
Crampton

Tuesday, November 15th, 2011

2011-11-15T07:38:00.004-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

1.We completed the characters associated with Heracles/Hercules today in class! Your QUIZ covering the characters will take place on THURSDAY, November 17th!

2. We started the characters associated with Odysseus (Lotus-eaters, Polyphemus and the Laestragonias). I would anticipate a quiz covering Odysseus on Monday the 21st!

3. Each student received their peer review concerning their nature myth. Students were asked to revise the myth based upon the suggestions given to them from peers. THE REVISION for their nature myth is due on MONDAY, November 21st!

Practice Quiz covering "Characters associated with Heracles"

1."Stop acting so juvenile." _____________/_____________ (she has a Roman name)
2. "My car was stuck in the snow." _______________
3. We hate the sound of baby rattles. _______________
4. French, German, Latin, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Greek, Turkish, Arabic...the list could reach 100. __________________
5. While at the beach, a crab bit my heel (labor). ______________
6. "Hey, boss, you taste like chicken." ______________
7. Apollo is our master . ______________
8. Golden horns and bronze hooves _____________
9. Apples are a precious gift that must always be guarded ______________
10. "What a beautiful fur coat you have."
"Thank-you, it's made of steal." _________________
11."I would have gladly given him my belt." __________________
12. "Love Potion" ____________
13. Foul Fowls ________________
14. Third and immortal wife of Heracles_____________/_____________
15. My blood is toxic _____________
16. I am suffering from cancer (labor) _______________.

2011-11-11T14:35:00.002-07:00

Dear Mythology Students,
We submitted our power points and handouts regarding your research topics. The presentations commenced and we obtained information for the characters up to the Amazons!

This is the order of the presentations:
Heracles/Hercules

1. Eurystheus/Nemean Lion
Nemean Lion

2. Hydra/Boar

3. Cerynian Hind and Stymphalian Birds

4. Man-eating mares of Diomedes/Amazons
5. Hesperides/Ladon
6. Geryon/Nessus
7. Hebe/Muses

Odysseus:
8. Lotus-eaters/Laestragonians
9. Polyphemus/Aeolus
10. Circe/Tieresies
11. Scylla/Charybdis
12. Sirens/Calypso

Theseus
13. Minotaur/Daedalus
14. Ariadne/Dionysus
15. Pan/Midas

Perseus
16. Medusa/Grey Witches
17. Andromeda/Casseopeia

Achilles
18. Chiron/Eris
19. Iris/Ganymede
20. Cupid/Chimera

Have a wonderful weekend! You have no homework!
Cheers,
Crampton

November 3rd, 2011

2011-11-03T12:14:00.003-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

We hung out in the library today. Each individual from the different groups obtain textual sources for their presentations. If you missed class, PLEASE stop by so you can pick up the handout you will need for our homework assignment. You will need to visit the library on your own.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please annotate/notate the information you photocopy today in the library. You should locate to textual sources from the library, make a photocopy of each, and then annotate/notate using ORANGE/ 5-7!

2. Please complete the "PowerPoint Organizational Format" sheet for the monster that you are specifically working on for your group. The completion needs to include all the works cited information for your textual sources, and the slides that will encompass your particular character.

Have a great weekend,
Crampton

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

2011-11-01T12:12:00.004-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids-HAPPY NOVEMBER 1st, cute kids!

If you missed class......YIKES! "What did I miss, Crampton.'
"Oh, let's see...EVERYTHING!"

Introduction to the monsters, lesser gods and heroes of Mythology

Dear Mythology Students,

1. You were introduced to a research assignment regarding the lesser gods and monsters of Mythology.

Note: Each student selected TWO-FOUR characters that are their research subjects.

Homework:

. 1.Depending on your chosen characters, each student will locate information at home via the Internet. Please DO NOT USE Wikipedia as a source. I would suggest ENCYCLOPEDIA MYTHICA as a stronger option. Some students elected to work with a partner, while others wanted to work independently. Which ever choice was made, two-four characters are the focus for the research. PLEASE PRINT OFF the INTERNET sources that you found useful in providing information about your characters. YOU NEED TO ANNOTATE and NOTATE each source with a total of 5-7/page using ORANGE! I will look at your Internet sources THURSDAY.

2. Compile a list of the points you found interesting in association with your characters. Please type the list using MLA format.

3. Please include a works cited page indicating your Internet source(s).

Your assignment is due at the beginning of class on Thursday. We will go to the library so that you can extend your research.

ERICA- You are working with Cameron and Becky and your characters are the Hesperides/Draco Ladon and Nessus

AUTSIN-You are working Sydney and your characters are the Eurymanthian Boar, Cerynian Hind and the Stymphalian Birds

Cheers,
Crampton

Monday, October 24th, 2011

2011-10-24T17:36:00.001-06:00

Welcome back, Mythology kids! I hope you had a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday. If you missed class we completed the following:

1. I explained the structure of the Final Exam, which will occur on Friday, October 28th.
I have included a copy of the review below. Please read the instructions!

2. Each student submitted their assignments: Revision for Modern Day God paper and Hades Annotations/Notations

REVIEW #1

Mythology Exam

I ask that you complete the following review, as doing so will give you insight regarding areas where you need to spend additional time concerning your review. In essence, you can use the review as a pre-test. Answer the questions without using your handouts or book. If you need assistance with certain questions, then you know that those particular questions need greater review. PLEASE USE A SEPARATE SHEET OF PAPER, as you don’t have adequate space for your responses below. You will submit your review prior to the exam on THURSDAY!

You will see 55 different pieces of artwork. Each drawing, painting, sketch, statue, etc. pertains to the areas of mythology we have discussed this term. I will ask you specific questions about each overhead. For example, you may be asked to “identify the myth illustrated” or “identify the god,” or “explain what is taking place in the image, “ etc. The best way to completely prepare for your exam, is to go through each question below, as some aspect will appear on the test.

I ask that you use ONE SIDE of a 3x5 card to assist you with some aspects that you might find difficult to recall. Yes, this is compulsory, my young friends. It’s call “insurance.” You may not need to use the card, but if you do, then it is available to you. IF YOU DO NOT USE THE CARD, then I will add five points of extra-credit to your exam score. If you use the card then no penalty will apply.

One of my goals as your teacher is for you to apply what we have learned in class to the “real world.” So, if you are watching a film, listening to music spending time in a museum, reading a book, etc, and you see/hear references to mythology, you can identify them without hesitation. All of your exams will be application in nature.

Identify the Roman name, symbol(s) and domain(s) for the following Greek gods:

1. Aphrodite 5. Poseidon 9. Zeus 13. Apollo

2 Demeter 6. Hestia 10. Hephaestus 14. Hades

3. Artemis 7. Hermes 11. Athena

4.Ares 8. Dionysus 12. Hera

NOTE: You need to have strong familiarity regarding the parents of each Olympian, and specifics concerning their births. In addition, you must be aware of relationships that the gods have with each other, and the result(s) of these associations. (Example: Poseidon is disrespectful towards Athena because her gift was chosen over his. Consequently, Medusa as we know her is created. (This, of course, is the abbreviated version).

Please respond using complete sentences:
15. Who are the Furies? Describe their roll, “birth,” and appearance.
16. Who are the rulers of the underworld? (Greek and Roman names, please)
(p.s. please be familiar with the Greek underworld, specifically the sinners associated with Tartarus)
17. Identify the areas of the Greek stage.
18. Identify the importance regarding the Greek chorus.

NOTE: for19= 30. you will need to be familiar with ALL the characters with
in each myth.
19. Plotline for “Pandora’s Box”
20. “Arachne”
21. “Prometheus”
22. “Demeter and Persephone”
23. “Daphne”
24. “Echo and Narcissus” 25. “Orpheus and Eurydice”
26. “Oedipus”
27. “Antigone”
28. “Io and Prometheus”
29. Creation myth (Aphrodite, Crone, Uranus, Rhea,)
30. “Danaids”
31. Tantalus
32. Sisyphus
33. Ixion

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Orpheus and Euydice" in your book
2. Please read "Sisyphus" in your book
3. Please read "Danaids" in your book
4. The review for your final exam (above) is due on Friday prior to the test. You will have Wednesday to work on it in class.
5. You can create the 3x5 card after you have a greater understanding concerning your areas of weakness
NOTE: ALL HOMEWORK COUPONS are due on WEDNESDAY!

Tursday, October 18th, 2011

2011-10-14T11:37:00.005-06:00

YOUR NATURE MYTH WAS DUE TODAY! I will not accept the assignment, as you have known about it for two weeks. You may only submit it with your homework coupon! SUBMIT your assignments on the appropriate due date, cute kids!

Dear Mythology Kids,

WELCOME TO HADES!

If I were to ask you to envision Hades, especially now that we have discussed its varying aspects, how would you describe it? This picture is an artist's concept of the entrance to Hades. He clearly DOES NOT know Hades as well as he should. Remember that only a part of Hades was Saturnine, and that of course was Tartarus.

If you missed class on Tuesday, October 18th, we discussed the Greek underworld of Hades. Each student received a red handout, which we completed together. I HAVE INCLUDED A COPY OF THE HANDOUT FOR YOU AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST! Several images were shared with you in relationship to the areas we discussed. I have attempted to include some of the images for you below. We did not complete the handout, but we will do so on MONDAY the 24th!

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read the grey handout given to you during class/7-10 annotation/notations/page/Due on Monday the 24th

2. Revise your "Modern Day God" paper for Monday, October 24th

The following pictures should give you greater insights into some of the aspects we discussed on Tuesday. Please make sure you obtain the information from someone else in class BEFORE you return.

This is the character known as Sisyphus. He was destroyed by Zeus due to his inappropriate sexual behavior. His pushes a boulder up a large mountain in Hades, with the one purpose of pushing it over the top. He is never successful in doing so, as the boulder always comes crashing down on him. This punishment is highly symbolic of the crime, as the rock represents Sisyphus' sexual desires. He hopes to overcome them, but he he is unsuccessful in doing so.

These women are known as the Danaids. There are fifty of them, and on their wedding night, all but one, murdered her husband by stabbing him in his heart. Their punishment in Hades is to obtain water from the River Styx with the hope of filling Hades' garden pond; however, their jars have holes in the bottom. They were never able to complete the mundane task of filling the pond. This is symbolic of the fact that they took the trivial and mundane away from their husbands; consequently, they are forever cursed with it.

This is Ixion. He attempted to rape Hera. Zeus had him strapped to a wheel of burning fire. This is symbolic of the fact that a rapist will continue to rape unless caught...hence the wheel. The fire on either side is symbolic of the pain the victim feels. Ixion was constantly burned, but never burned away. OUCH!

Tantalus is another sinner in Hades. He murdered his nephew, and then fed his flesh to the gods in the form of a stew. The Olympians were so appalled by Tantalus' behavior that they cemented him within Styx, being cursed with perpetual hunger and thirst. Each time he attempted to drink from Styx the water would move away from him. There are fruit trees hanging above his head, and yet each time he attempted to grab some of the fruit it, too, would move away from him. He is perpetually hungry and thirty. Can you recognize that each punishment is symbolic of its crime!

THE GREEK UNDERWORLD (handout given on Friday, Oct. 20th)

1. The rulers of the underworld are _________ and his queen _________.
2. The ferryman is called __________________ and he must receive an _________ in order for the dead to cross the River Styx. The coin is placed under the _________ of the deceased.
3. The three most significant rivers in Hades are:
a. The River ______ is the river of the “unbreakable oaths.”
b. The River ________ is the river of the “forgetfulness.”
c. The river Mnemosyne is the “pool of ____________.”
4. The dog __________ guards the gates, and its most distinctive physical feature is ____________________.
5. When ghosts first arrive in Hades, they are taken to the judges of the dead to be tried according to the deeds during life. They are called __________________, ____________________ and _______________.
6. ________________ is the goddess of justice. She determines if the punishments are fair.
7. There are three areas of the underworld:
a. ____________ where people are sent who ______________________________ ________________________________________________________________
b. _____________ for those who lived ___________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
c. _______________ for those who could not _______________________________ __________________________________________________________________
8. A significant motif of mythological stories is justice: defining what is right and wrong and deciding how sinners should be punished. The Greeks were extremely imaginative in punishing those they considered guilty. There are four individuals who have eternal punishment due to their actions on earth.
a. The Danaids:

b. Sisyphus:

c. Tantalus:

d. Ixion:

9. From the surface of the earth, how does one find the entrance to Hades?

10. The FATES determine the length of one’s life. _________________ weaves the thread; the “disposer of lots,” ____________ gives each man their destiny; the most feared is ____________, as she cuts the thread and your life along with it.

11. The god of sleep, ___________________ and the god of dreams, ______________ belong to the retinue of Hades.
12. _____________ is the Greek goddess of Justice.

October 12th and 14th, 2011

2011-10-14T11:29:00.002-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

Hang in there, cute kids! Your first quarter is almost over. Please let me know what I can do to assist you.

What did I miss today, Crampton?

ANTIGONE, the courageous daughter of OEDIPUS, was introduced to you today!

If you missed class on Friday, October 14th we accomplished the following:

1. I introduced the myth of "ANTIGONE" (pg. 273). MAKE SURE YOU READ THE MYTH! "Antigone" is the companion piece to "Oedipus." It is the myth of what happens to Oedipus after he blinds himself and is banished from Thebes. Antigone is the oldest female child of Oedipus and Jocata. We read the myth in class, and then started reading the play "Anitgone" by Sophocles together. We did not finish reading in class, so make sure you have read the blue copy of the play by Tuesday. It was originally written as a myth, and then retold as a drama by Sophocles. It is a story about doing what is honorable and just, even when you are the only individual who has the courage to behave with such fortitude. Please make sure you are familiar with the characters of Creon, Haemon, Antigone, Etoecles, Polynieces, and Ismene for your upcoming exam.

2. We viewed a clip from Oedipus performed by the London Shakespeare Company. I shared this with everyone as a review.

3. We then proceeded to read the "Antigone" myth, followed by the dramatic version of the myth.

4. Everyone submitted their take-home quizzes for "Oedipus."

HOMEWORK:
5. I gave everyone a copy of their "Greek Theater" quiz which is due on Tuesday.

6. Please remember to have a TWO COPIES of your nature myth for TUESDAY. In addition, you need to have a copy of your rough draft which should contain corrections and the signature of your "editor."

Thursday, October 6th, 2011

2011-10-11T12:32:00.002-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I hope you had a positive experience attending "College Days!"

GREEK DRAMA for today, October 6th, 2010!

Dear Mythology Kids,

IF YOU MISSED CLASS TODAY....

If you missed class today, please make sure you read the myth of "Oedipus" located on pages. 268-273 in your textbook. You will have a QUIZ over the myth and Greek drama on Tuesday, October 11th! PLEASE READ THE MYTH! What we do in class on Friday is important concerning your schema regarding "Oedipus." This is a valuable piece of literature, as it was originally written as a narrative, and then transformed to a play by Sophocles. It also contains the literary element of IRONY, which adds to the plot line.

This image depicts a theater troupe performing "Oedipus Rex. " Oedipus is in the middle, and the Greek chorus is surrounding him.

We reviewed the three different types of IRONY today in class.
1. Dramatic Irony: This occurs when the audience is aware of specific information that characters are not.
2. Irony of Situation or Situational Irony: This occurs when the outcome of a literary work turns out differently than what the audience originally anticipated.
3. Verbal Irony: This occurs when a characters means the opposite of what they say.

We completed your handout regarding Greek Theater. Please visit with someone in class.

Ancient Greek theater mask. The Greeks used masks to help indicated emotion and the type of drama being performed. This image depicts a TRAGIC mask.

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read "Oedipus" on pages 268-272
Plan on a quiz covering "Oedipus." PLEASE NOTE THE QUESTIONS BELOW!
2. Your NATURE MYTH assignment is due on Tuesday, October 18th, 2011

I think your THRONES are so clever and I look forward to interviewing you about your design choices. PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR INTERVIEW TIMES.

.

I introduced the myth of "Oedipus" to you today (Monday, October 4th) as a catalyst for understanding Greek Drama. I have included some additional images below from those I shared with you class. This myth is extremely significant, as it illustrates the ancient Greeks desire and ability to take their myths and transfer them to the genre of drama.

1. We started our discussion regarding GREEK DRAMA. You can obtain a copy of the handout when you return to class.

WEDNESDAY'S QUIZ:The literary tool of irony is significant to the plot of "Oedipus." As part of your quiz on Thursday, you will respond to ONE of FOUR quotes. I will ask that you explain the irony of the chosen question in relationship to the plot of Oedipus. Your response must be thorough. Responding with, "This section is ironic because Oedipus does not realize Laius is his father," is not detailed enough. You will need to explain ALL the circumstances behind the quote that you "pull from the bag." You will not be able to use your textbook or notes for the quiz. This is why you must READ YOUR MYTH, my fine young friends! You do have access to the questions, as they are below, and you can consider a strong response for each one.

1. "He left his home, Corinth, where he was held to be the son of the king, Polybus, and the reason for his self exile was another Delphic oracle. Apollo had declared that he was fated to kill his father."

2. "...whoever had murdered King Laius must be punished. Oedipus was relieved. Surely the man or men could be found after all these years, and they should know well how to punish him."

3. He spoke to his people..."Let no one of this land give him shelter. Bar him from your homes, as one defiled, companioned by pollution. And solemnly I pray, may he who killed wear out his life in evil, being evil."

4. "No one suffered more than Oedipus. He regard himself as the father of the whole state; the people in it were his children; the misery of each one was his too."

You are to annotate the myth entitled "Dionysus and Semele" using particular colors: WHAT DOES ANNOTATE MEAN, Crampton? "ANNOTATE" means to underline text in order to strengthen understanding. "NOTATE" means to record information netx to text in order to strengthen understanding.

So.........Your first annotated myth is due on Monday, October 10th, 2011!

If you find a section of text confusing then you would underline it using BROWN.
If you are able to make a connection ot your own life then you would underline that section of text using your PURPLE.
Another way to annotate is by asking QUESTIONS about the text. RED is the color you will use for this annotation.
If you come across a VOCABULARY word that you don't know use YELLOW!
If a piece of text touches you emotionally, then BLUE is the color for that annotation.
If a piece of writing is poetic to you, then use BLACK!
If text gives you a different perspective then GREEN is your annotation color.
ORANGE is the color you will use if you come across text that you find interesting.

Friday, September 30th, 2011

2011-10-03T19:12:00.003-06:00

Quiz, "Melody Time," and "Why Birds Molt".......

Dear Mythology Kids,

We completed the following:

1. Submitted our "take-home" quizzes.
2. Took the quiz covering the following nature myths: "Daphne," "Narcissus," "Prometheus and Io," and "Arachne"
3. We then completed Journal #2 entitled "Melody Time." Students watched a cartoon regarding the legendary character Pecos Bill and then identify several nature myth aspects found within the clip.
4. We then reviewed a strong example of a nature myth...."Why birds molt!" Your plotmap assignment was introduced to you, as well. PLEASE STOP BY DURING FLEX, or visit with a friend regarding this part of your assignment.

HOMEWORK:
1. Your throne is due on Thursday.
2. Nature Myth Part 1 is also due on Friday!

Wed., September 26th, 2011

2011-09-28T14:37:00.004-06:00

We completed the following:

1. Submitted our "take-home" quizzes.
2. Took the quiz covering the following nature myths: "Daphne," "Narcissus," "Prometheus and Io," and "Arachne"
3. We then reviewed poor examples of previous nature myths. Students then worked in groups and evaluated the myths that their group reviewed.
4. Nature Myth Part 1 was explained to each student. Please visit with me about this if you missed class.

HOMEWORK:
1. Your throne is due Thursday, October 6th.
2. Nature Myth Part 1 is also due on Friday!

Cheers,
Crampton

Monday, September 26th, 2011

2011-09-25T19:34:00.002-06:00

Dear Mythology kids,

1. Students submitted their "Modern Day God" assignment.
2. Journal #1 was introduced. Please see the previous post.
3. We review the three nature myths that were read for homework, and then students were given a copy of their "take-home" quiz. The quiz is due on WEDNESDAY, September 28th!
2. We read another nature myth entitled "Arachne." I gave each student a copy of the myth.
4. THRONE is due on THURSDAY, October 6th.

HOMEWORK:
1. Take-home quiz is due on Wednesday, September 28th
2. In-class quiz covering "Daphne," "Arachne," "Narcissus" and "Prometheus and Io"

Thursday, September 22nd, 2011

2011-09-21T11:45:00.004-06:00

It's only "natural"....... We read and discussed several nature myths today!

Dearest Mythology Students,

I'm sorry that you missed class! If you are ill, please take care of yourself, if you decided to "avoid" class, then YOU ARE GOING TO HADES WITHOUT AN OBOLUS! SHAME ON YOU, my young friends!

We completed the following:
1. Journal #1 entitled "Hope"
Please consider the following quote by Freidrich Nietzsche. "Hope is the worst of all evils, because it prolongs the torment of man." "Talk" to me about this. Do you agree or disagree with Nietzsche? Explain why? Possibly you see his point of view, but you also view "hope" as a positive entity, as well. Please support your opinion with a personal example.

2. You were introduced to Prometheus and Pandora. We read both nature myths in class.

. FOR HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Demeter and Persephone" ( I gave everyone a copy of this myth). It won't work as a PDF, so I have left several copies outside my room on the bulletin board.
2. Please read "Demeter" (located on pgs. 50-55) in your book.
Note: Both #1 and #2 are the same myth; yet, they have some distinct differences
3. QUIZ on TUESDAY covering "Prometheus," "Pandora," and "Demeter and Persephone." Your quiz is a "take-home" quiz. Make sure you have your myths to exchange for the quiz.
4. Remember your "Modern Day God" assignment is due on Monday 26th, 2011

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

2011-09-20T14:30:00.002-06:00

Dear Mythology Students,

We completed the following today in class:
1. We reviewed the "COUNCIL TABLE of MT. OLYMPUS" and discussed which gods are located next to each other at the table and why. Please obtain this information from someone else in class.

2. We then reviewed for the "Application Quiz" by correcting the "practice-quiz.'

3. We took and corrected the quiz.

4. The Throne Assignment was explained to each student. You actually have a copy of the throne assignment in the packet that I gave to you on the first day of class. It is light blue in color and there is a throne located on the back of the explanation. THE THRONE ASSIGNMENT is due ON THURSDAY, OCT. 6th!

HOMEWORK:
1. Remember that your "Modern Day God" assignment is due on Monday, September 26th!
2. Throne assignment is due on Thursday, Oct. 6th

Cheers,
Crampton

Friday, September 16th, 2011

2011-09-16T11:46:00.004-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

If you missed class, we completed the following:
1. We obtained information for the remaining gods.
2. I explained your "Modern Day God" assignment which is due on Monday, September 26th.

HOMEWORK:
1. Your "Modern Day God" paper is due on MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th! Please see the explanation for the assignment below.
2. STUDY for your "Application Quiz" concerning the gods. Please note the practice quiz below.

Instructions for "Modern Day God" Assignment:

1.Through our class discussions, each student should have a greater understanding concerning the Olympians. Please select ONE Olympian and connect him/her to an individual from past or present society. The god you select does not need to be the same one you research regarding your “Handout” assignment.
2.All of the god's attributes do not need to be obvious in relationship to the individual chosen for connection; however, you must be able to relate at least one (obviously) attribute that both possess. Please go beyond the obvious, by focusing on intrinsic characters rather than appearance.
3.In order to obtain enough information regarding your chosen connection, you will need to complete some research. Please note the citation examples below concerning a book or Internet source.

BOOK: Carter, Joseph. The Life of Mark Twain. Scott Foreman, Pub., New York, NY.

1989.

INTERNET: William, Jacob. “Mark Twain.” The Mark Twain No One Knew. August

17th, 2001. September 11, 2008.

http://coned.ceu.edu/authors/19thcentury.org

4.Please begin your response by indicating the connection between the god and your chosen individual (Introduction). Your next paragraph needs to indicate aspects concerning the god (Body Paragraph #1). The third paragraph will focus on the individual chosen for comparison (Body Paragraph #2). Finally, your fourth paragraph will justify why you elected to compare the two characters (Conclusion)

5.Please use ACADEMIC VOICE for your response.
6.MLA Format regarding structure and citations also needs to be used. Double space your response, using Times New Roman print, and 12 point font.
7. Please incorporate an image of your “modern day” comparison in your paper.

Instructions for PRACTICE QUIZ: Please select the god that BEST fits each description. You will need to identify the character with both Greek and Roman names. For some questions you will need to justify your response. Some gods may be used more than once.

1. Venerate, Vigil, Valuable, Vigilante, Volume, Viscous...I love words that begin with the letter V. ______________/______________ (both Greek and Roman names)
2. I would make an excellent "shop" teacher. ______________/___________
3. I have a PhD in Statistics. __________/______________
4. I am "President Obama" of the Olympians. _____________/____________
5. I directed a documentary film on master thieves. ___________/____________
6. I would do well working in a floral shop, as the buds would always bloom.

_____________/_______________
7. March is my favorite month. ____________/___________
8. I always "hit my mark." __________/_____________
9. I am responsible for desecrating a temple. ____________/_____________
10. Justify your response for #9 ____________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
11. A trick was played to woo me, so "love can not live where there is no trust." ______/_____
12. Justify your response for #11. ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________
13. I failed to ask my wife's mother for her hand in "marriage." _________/_________
14. "Make me the most beautiful land animal." __________/____________

Good luck with the practice quiz.
I will see you on Wednesday!

ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND, cute kids!
Cheers,
Crampton

Wednesday, September 14th, 2011

2011-09-14T11:05:00.002-06:00

If you missed class on Wednesday, September 14th....SHAME! SHAME! SHAME!

Monday, September 12th, 2011

2011-09-12T11:04:00.002-06:00

Dear Mythology Students,

STOP MISSING CLASS!

If you missed class on Monday, September 12th we did the following:

1. We submitted the "Handout" assignment that was due today, and then each group worked together on compiling a solid list regarding the information each group member located regarding their god. We completed Zeus, Hera and Athena and recorded that information on the GREEN handout in the "note section" of your binder. The following information was discussed for each:

Zeus

controls all aspects of the weather
tricks Hera into marrying him by transforming into a cuckoo bird
Hera is his second wife
Metis is his first wife (she is the mother to Athena)
shape shifts into animals in order to woe women
has numerous affairs
Just
has difficulties in making decisions
god of athletes/athletic events were held in his honor/wore "crown" of oak leaves

Hera

Zeus transforms into a cuckoo bird. Hera loves animals, and finds a "cuckoo bird" outside her window trapped in a storm. She brings the bird to her breast and states, "I will love you forever, cuckoo bird, and I swear by the River Styx that I will honor this vow." At this point, Zeus returned to his true form, raped Hera, and told her that she had to honor her vow by marrying him. If you swore by Styx your oath could not be broken.
She loves animals.
Hephaestus is her son without a father (in some versions) Hera was angry that Zeus had given birth to Athena without the assistance of a mother, so she gave birth to Hephaestus without a father. He was born ugly and unshapen, so she cast him off Mt. Olympus.
Due to Zeus' affairs, Hera takes her anger and frustrations out on Zeus' lovers and children.Athena
Zeus swallowed Athena's mother, Metis, because an oracle had informed Zeus that if Metis birthed a son that child would overthrow his father. Zeus felt that he could not risk this, so he swallowed Metis. Athena grew within her father, until one day he experience a terrible headache. Hephaestus, the God of Inventions, sliced open Zeus' head and Athena was born wearing full battle armour and holding a shield and spear.
Athena values mankind. She taught them how to create tools, use numbers, create nets, weaving and ships.
Athena expected mankind to give gratitude to the gods of Olympus. If they were disrespectful, she punished them. She turns a mortal woman names Arachne into a spider because she failed to thank Athena for her gift. In addition, she said that she was a better weaver than Athena.
Athena and Poseidon both wanted Attica as their city-state. The people decided they would select their patron god based upon a gift they offered the people. Athena gave the people an Olive Tree, and Poseidon gave the people a spring of salt water. The people selected Athena as their patron deity; consequently, Poseidon detested Athena.

I look forward to seeing you on Wednesday.

HOMEWORK:
1. STUDY FOR YOUR QUIZ covering the GODS. You will see several images of the gods. You will need to identify their Greek and ROman names, symbols and domains.

Cheers,
Crampton

PRACTICE QUIZ for "The Olympians" NOTE: I did not find an image of Hades that I felt was "accurate." Please be aware of this when taking your quiz. Good Luck.....

For each image, please identify the Greek and Roman names, the other symbols not present in the image, and all of the god's domains. Please follow this structure for your responses.

3..

10.

11.

Thursday, September 8th

2011-09-08T16:17:00.002-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

PRACTICE QUIZ for "The Olympians" NOTE: I did not find an image of Hades that I felt was "accurate." Please be aware of this when taking your quiz. Good Luck.....

For each image, please identify the Greek and Roman names, the other symbols not present in the image, and all of the god's domains. Please follow this structure for your responses.

3..

10.

11.

HOMEWORK:
1. Visit with someone else regarding your "HANDOUT" assignment. Each student was given one of the 13 Olympians to research. In addition, I gave each student information regarding their particular god. Your assignment requires that you have a minimum of two sources (I gave one to each student), and then you are to locate another source (Internet, your book, etc.) A valid website is "ENCYCLOPEDIA MYTHICA." This assignment is due on MONDAY, September 12th. You should have two copies of your handout. One will be used in class, the other will be given to me. In addition, please make a copy of your additional source (the Internet, book, etc. ), as I want to see the other source you used to obtain information.

2. Start prepping for your quiz covering the gods (Greek and Roman names, symbols and domains). This quiz will take place on Wednesday, September 14th.

Enjoy your weekend! I look forward to seeing you at Homecoming!
May the power of Athena be with you,
Crampton

Tuesday, September 6th, 2011

2011-09-07T11:48:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

DO NOT MISS CLASS, guys!

For those of you that missed, we completed the following:

1. We reviewed for your "quest" by correcting the practice quest.
2. Students were given 5 minutes to review on their own.
3. Quest was given and corrected....this took the majority of the period.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read pages 24-36 in your book.
2. Identify two points of interest for each god discussed in your textbook.
Homework is due on Thursday

Did you miss class on Thursday, September 1st?

2011-09-01T06:56:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

We completed the following today in class:
1. Creation Myth (the back side of your yellow handout)
2. FLASHCARD TOPICS:

1. polytheistic
2. pagan
3. city-state
4. Minoans
5. Myceneans
6. Homer
7. Aesthetic myth
8. Mythology
9. Gaea
10. Uranus
11. Nyx
12. Erebus
13. Eros
14. Pontus
15. Aphrodite
16. Furies
17. Cyclopes
18.100 handed ones
19. Titans
20. Atlas/Prometheus/Epimetheus
21. Typhon
22. Iaeptus
23. Cronus
24. Rhea
25. Hestia
26. Hera
27. Demeter
28. Poseidon
29. Hades
30. Zeus

The Key to Success....PREPARATION!

"The Creation Myth"

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.
I When I see you on Tuesday, we will review, and then take your quiz. Remember to use the practice quiz as a pre-test. You should put all of your information away while you take the quiz. THIS IS CLEARLY AN INTEGRITY ISSUE ON YOUR PART, my fine young friends. In addition, you should print a copy of the quiz as a word document, and be prepared to bring it with you to class Tuesday. We will review for the quiz by discussing the questions on the practice quiz. If you choose to use flashcards on the quiz for, you can use a 1/4 of the ones that you complete. DON'T FORGET to review the information concerning your map. In addition, you will receive questions from "Tell me a Story" (Front of your yellow handout).

PRACTICE QUIZ for "THE CREATION" Myth
1. According to the ancient Greeks, how did formed matter begin?

2. Three "beings" were initially created, please identify them for 2-4.

2._______________ 3.______________ 4.________________

5. Who was Uranus, and what was his greatest fear?

6. Identify his first two "groups" of children and why his wife was so angry with him concerning these children.

7. What characters are created from Uranus' death (in any order)?

7._____________________ 8._________________

9. Describe the Titans to me.............

10. Why is Cronus so willing to destroy his father?

11. Cronus marries his sister, Rhea, who in turn gives him six children. Explain what he does with the children and why.

12. Refer to the image at the top of this post. The two characters on this Greek vase are married. The female is offering the male something of significance. Explain to me what is taking place here.

13. Refer to the second image at the top of this post. Identify the three female characters in the drawing. What was their purpose in Greek mythology?

14. Refer to the third image at the top of this post. Explain the symbolism behind the death of the character lying on his back.

15. Refer to the fourth image...... Why was Uranus so afraid of "these" ( I know there is only one) children?

16. Who is this? Explain her "birth."

I hope you did well! I will see you soon.

Cheers,

Crampton

If you missed class on Friday, August 26th

2011-08-26T20:53:00.002-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I know that several of you missed class due to the assembly. Remember if you are going to miss, then you need to COMMUNICATE with me. I don't have time to repeat each class. I value and venerate those that stopped by before, during, and after school to find out what they missed. If you failed to do this, then CHECK WITH A FRIEND in one of the Mythology classes. Remember to COMMUNICATE with me for the future!

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class today, please make sure you visit with someone else taking Mythology......

Each student received the following:

1. A copy of their textbook, Mythology, by Edith Hamilton

2. A copy of their Homework Coupon ( if you missed class please visit with me about this)

3. Four handouts that were then placed within the notebook

a. a blue handout that is a map of Greece

b. a yellow handout entitled "Tell me a Story"

c. a green handout that is a chart of the Greek gods

d. and a pink handout that will be used for flashcards

(Each handout was placed in the "NOTES" section of the notebook.)

HOMEWORK for TUESDAY:

1. Your "What is a Classic" assignment is due on Tuesday!

WHAT DID YOU DISCUSS IN CLASS, Crampton?

1. We reviewed some basic information regarding ancient Greece, and then that information was recorded on the blue map given to you at the beginning of class.

a. What is a city-state?

b. The difference between Athens and Sparta (Athena vs. Ares and Aesthetics vs. Warfare)

c. The terms POLYTHEISTIC and HELLENISTIC

e. We also discussed the brilliance of the ancient Greeks and how their influence still plays a role in our modern culture.

I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday!

Cheers,

Crampton (a.k.a. "Athena")

Welcome to the "Jungle"

2011-08-22T09:39:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Students,
I welcome you to the land of gods and goddesses, where logic does not exist, only the idea that some where in the slime of cosmic confusion order becomes real. Was that poetic? TRANSLATION: Prepare yourself to learn ancient ideas and concepts that are bizarre; yet still relevant and valid in modern times. I welcome you to Mythology.

HOMEWORK for Friday, August 26th:
1. Disclosure Document
2. Supplies with USB drive, 3x5 cards, and markers (remember that the bandage for your mask is not required until I give you further instructions)

HOMEWORK for Tuesday, August 30th
3. "What is a Classic? "

I look forward to working with you this year.
Cheers,
Crampton

Final Exam Explained Today and "Ragnorok" initiated

2011-05-17T15:28:00.000-06:00

Dear Students,

If you missed class today, your "Final Exam" was introduced to you. I have included a copy of the explanation for it below.

FINAL EXAM DUE DATE: MON., MAY 27th for B1 and B2
FINAL EXAM DUE DATE: WED., May 31st for B4

Final Exam ExplanationMythology
Mrs. Kori Crampton
Due Date __________________

Consider the following questions?
What have you learned this year?
How has your study of Mythology heightened your understanding of popular culture, literature and the world around you?
Explanation: As discussed on numerous occasions, mythological allusions and references are frequently found in modern culture. Through a knowledge of mythology, one’s understanding of literary work and popular culture increases.
You are required to select five of the ten options listed below to illustrate your understanding of mythology. You may use examples connected with either Greek or Norse Mythology.

1.Advertisement using mythological reference and/or allusions.

2.Album covers using mythological references and/or allusions.

3.Book title using mythological references and/or allusions.

4.Vocabulary word used in literary work.

5. Reference or allusion within a literary work.

6. Comic strip/cartoon using mythological references and/or allusions.

7. Company names or insignias using mythological references and/or allusions.

8. Norse motifs found in other literary work.

9. Artwork with mythological references and/or allusions.

10. Errors pertaining to any mythological character/concept found in advertising literary work.

The following requirements are compulsory:
1. A hard copy of each example (photo copies will suffice if your example is found in a book).

2. The Internet may not be used to locate your examples.

3. For each example provided, an explanation must also be included as to why the mythological reference/allusion is an appropriate choice. What is the point of using mythology in advertising? For the book title? Etc.

4. The explanations need to accompany the hard copy of your examples. I expect them to be 10-20 sentences in length. Assume your audience has no schema regarding the mythology used in the selected examples; therefore, your explanations need to be thorough.

5. You may not repeat mythological references and/or allusions. So, if you locate an allusion to Pandora in a cartoon, then you can’t include an example regarding Pandora for another option.

6. You may not use examples shared with you in class (ie. “Apollo Burger”, “Midas Muttler”, “Nike”, “Ajax Cleaner”)

7. Your exam needs to be submitted in an aesthetically pleasing way. Each example should be mounted on a piece of cardstock with the corresponding explanation on the opposite page. Page protectors are appreciated, but not compulsory. I would suggest a three ring binder purely for organizational purposes!

8. A title page needs to be included with the following information.
Your Name
Period
Date
List of options you selected for your final exam.

I have several examples that I shared with those that were present on Monday. Unfortunately, I can't use the images here, because they are from a power point. I am happy to share the examples with you when you return.

HOMEWORK:
1 Please read the following Biblical verses.

Rev. 6:12-15
Rev. 8:7-10
Rev. 21:5-6
March 13:, 22-26

2. Please read "Ragnorok" and notate using the Biblical verses as your catalyst

3. Locate FOUR images that you can connect with "Ragnork

4. Final Exam! Please start preparing for it NOW!

5. Journals Due on Thursday!

Cheers,
Crampton

Completion of Norse Death Customs and "Beowulf" take-home quiz assigned

2011-05-13T14:15:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
I hope you have a wonderful weekend. You only have two weeks left, and I know that you can make it. Please let me know what I can do to assist you!

WHAT DID WE DO IN CLASS TODAY, CRAMPTON?
1. Each "death customs" group shared their particular information with the entire class. I had images that correlate with each groups' topic. If you missed class, please obtain the information from a friend, as doing so will assist you with understanding "Balder's Death" located on pg. 150 of your textbook.
2. We then watched a film associated with "Balder's Death" and Loki's punishment.

HOMEWORK:

1. Please select two of the following questions for your "Beowulf" take-home quiz. Please complete your questions using MLA format and Academic Voice. If you would like to receive extra-credit then you can respond to more than two questions.

1. One important poetic device in Old English is the "kenning," a compound word in which one thing is described by a fanciful two-word metaphor. For example, the sea is described as a "whale-road,” Hrothgar is described as a "ring-giver,” and a murderer is described as a "corpse-maker.” What effect do these kennings have on you as a reader? How do they add to the poetic atmosphere of the epic? Locate additional kennings to those indicated above and indicate the importance of your chosen kennings.

2. As discussed in class, Fate plays a significant role in Norse myths. How much control do the characters in Beowulf have over their fates? Are skilled warriors any more likely to succeed than cowards? Include textual evidence from the poem to support your response.

3. Beowulf represents the successful blending of pagan and Christian elements. These elements are incorporated side-by-side in the epic. Describe and explain the placement of these elements including readers’ acceptance of both. Support your response with textual evidence.

4. In Beowulf, the distribution of wealth is an essential part of the social structure. How important is wealth in Beowulf, and how does it relate to other Norse myths we have discussed. Support your response with textual evidence.

5. According to the archetypal heroic pattern, is Beowulf a “true” hero? Review the nine traits and indicate if Beowulf’s character follows the archetype. Is Beowulf an ideal hero and king? Is there anything lacking in his character? Support your response with textual evidence. In addition, why is the concept of fame and glory so significant to the Norse warrior? Support your response with textual evidence.

2. Please read "Death of Balder" on page 150. Notate the myth concerning Norse Death Customs. You should locate a total of 10 connections.

3. Journals are due on Thursday. Make sure you have a total of 13!

4. Don't miss class on Tuesday!

Cheers,

Crampton

Completion of "BEOWULF" and Introduction to Norse Death Customs

2011-05-11T15:27:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following:
1.We read the final chapter of Beowulf concerning the battle with the Dragon.
2. We then viewed a clip from Beowulf regarding the final battle scene with the Dragon.
3. We then separated into groups based upon color coded tags located on each desk. Each group received information regarding Norse Death Customs. We then reviewed the information and developed a list of facts for each group's assigned section.
4. We will share this information will everyone on Friday.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please prepare for an exam covering "Beowulf" on Friday.
2. Please read "Balder's Dreams" pg. 147
3. Notate the myth/5-8/page/ALL YOUR COLORS!
NOTE: XC is due on Monday, May 23rd

XC OPTIONS:
For each of the included options, please submit a one page response.

1. View THOR (include your movie ticket along with a response to errors in the film and aspects that are correctly depicted).
2. Compare "Beowulf" to 13 Warrior
3. View Lord of the Rings and discuss references and allusions to the Norse Myths
4. Read "Sigurd, the Dragon Slayer" ( I will give you a copy of the myth) and view Lord of the Rings. Compare the two texts

Introduction to Beowulf

2011-05-05T21:15:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

Introduction to "Beowulf"

Dear Mythology Students,

Our introduction to the epic poem Beowulf took place on Thursday, May 5th. Each student received a handout detailing the poem. I have included a copy of it below, but the format is different from the one given in class. Please read the information below so that when you return to class on Tuesday, you will have some schema for the poem.

BEOWULFIn 1936, J.R.R. Tolkien delivered a lecture before members of the British Academy entitled “Beowulf: The Monsters and critics.” Tolkien remarked, “Beowulf is in fact so interesting as poetry, that it overshadows other pieces of the same period. It is the greatest achievement of Old English literature.

The Beowulf manuscript, written about 1000 A.D., was preserved in ways unknown. It is one of few Anglo-Saxon pieces of literature to survive Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries and their magnificent libraries in the late 1530’s.

Once Henry separated himself from the Catholic Church, most references to Catholicism, including written texts, were destroyed due to Henry claiming they were “pagan” in origin. The manuscripts housed in the monasteries were then ripped apart and used to polish candlesticks, clean boots and furniture, some were sold as scrap paper to grocers and soap makers; some were sent to bookbinders, who cut them into strips and used them to form the book covers of other books. Somehow, a single manuscript managed to survive this travesty. Yes, the epic poem known as Beowulf. However, the current manuscript is not the original, but a copy, in two distinct hand writings. How many other copies existed, or how close to the original this particular version actually is, we will never know. This copy survived a fire in 1731; however, the top and outer edges of the manuscript were damaged. Fortunately, due to ultra-violet photography, the chard sections, that were once gaps, have now been translated. The poem still bears the scars of the fire. The Beowulf poem is significant because it is a miraculous survivor of the ravages of history. It is now housed in the British Library London, England. I am sure that you will enjoy reading it.

HISTORICAL INFORMATION
Beowulf is an epic poem, a work of fiction, centered on the main character, Beowulf, and his fight with three monsters. Beowulf blends a fairytale type of narrative, where monsters are defeated with the hero receiving honor and fame. The always relevant theme of “Good vs. Evil” is significant to this piece of literature. The battle between Grendle, Grendle’s mother, and the Dragon illustrate a society that valued war and aristocracy. Layers of morality, tenderness, and piety are intermixed in Beowulf, with the glorification of war, death, and fame. The Beowulf poet captures battle scenes with magnificent skill and vividness in this poem about kings and kingship.

#1
“…He ruled Land on all sides: where ever the sea would take them, his soldiers sailed, returned with tribute and obedience. There was a brace King!” (8-12)

#2
“Then the monster charged again, omitting fire, wild with pain, rushed out fierce and dreadful, its fear forgotten watching for its chance it drove its tusks into Beowulf’s neck; he staggered, the blood came flooding forth, fell like the rain.” (2688-2693)
#3
“… No female, no matter how fierce, could have come with a man’s strength, fought with power and courage men fight with. Smashing their shining swords, their bloody, hammer-forged blades onto boar-headed helmets, slashing and stabbing with the sharpest points.” (1282-1287)

The significance of battle against supernatural forces is what moves the poet, in addition to the hero’s driving force for glory. The strong fighter, the hero, the man who wins that most precious of all treasures, fame, is the man who never gives up, and who does not worry about the possible consequences of bravery.

#4
“… so fame Comes to the men who means to win it, and care about nothing else.”
(1534-1536)
#5
“… I am old now, But I will fight again, seek fame still…” (2512-2513)

“…But the brave old Swede felt no fear; he quickly returned a better blow than he’d gotten, and struck the beast savagely again…”
(2967-2970)
#6
“…Grendle Saw that his strength was deserting him, his claws bound fast, Beowulf tearing at his claws. The monster’s hatred rose higher, but power had gone. He twisted in pain…”
(811-815)

Beowulf is a Swedish Geat (Nordic tribe in Sweden), who comes to aid the Danes (Nordic tribe in Denmark) to defeat Grendle, a monster who has terrorized them for years. When Grendle’s mother appears, hungry for revenge due to the killing of her son, Beowulf follows her back to her watery lair and kills her too. Showered with gifts from the Danes, he returns to Sweden where he becomes a great leader of his people. Many years pass, and he faces the threat of an angry fire-breathing dragon, aroused by the theft of a jeweled cup from its treasure hoard. The aging hero kills the dragon, only after suffering a mortal wound, and then dies himself. The Geats bury Beowulf’s ashes in an earthen tower at the sea’s edge, to guide sailors from far and wide.

Principle Character and Terms:
Hrothgar (Dane/Denmark/King of Danes/mead hall is ravaged by Grendle)
Wiglaf: Beowulf’s nephew/fights with B. against the Dragon
Herot/name of mead hall built by Hrothgar
Wergild: “Life for Life”
Unferth: best Danish warrior; jealous of Beowulf

Hygelac: King of Geats (Sweden); Beowulf’s uncle

Beowulf: Geat/protagonist

Brecca: Beowulf’s Childhood friend
Wyrd (urd): unalterable fate/ predetermination of life

Background on Poet and Significance of Poem
The poem is full of Christian sentiments, superimposed with a pagan code of battle, heroism, and kingship. The poet was either a Christian or was familiar with and influenced by Christianity. Some scholars believe that some monkish hand could have added the Christian references to improve and correct an essentially pagan epic. Most of the Christianity within Beowulf can not be so easily dismissed as there is too much of it. “Let God be thanked!” cries Hrothgar when the Danes assemble to celebrate Beowulf’s victory over Grendle. These are his first words; he goes on, almost at once, to assert with great feeling that
“…the Almighty makes miracles
When He pleases, wonder after wonder, and this world
Rests in His hands…” (960-962)

In addition, the poet describes Grendle as being a relation of Cain.

“He was spawn in that slime, Shut away from men; they split
Conceived by a pair of those monsters born Into a thousand forms of evil-spirits and
Of Cain, murderous creatures banished fiends, goblins, monsters, giants,
By God, punished forever for the crime of A brood forever opposing the Lord’s
Abel’s death. The Almighty drove those demons Will, and again and again defeated.”
Out, and their exile was bitter, (103-114)

It is God, who leads Beowulf into victory over Grendle’s vicious mother, once Beowulf has proved that he is willing and able to help himself. The essential nature of this Christianity may not be quite the same as those found in California, London, or Utah, but it is an integral part of the poet’s though and his view of life. The poet is quite skilled at blending pagan beliefs with Christianity. Personally I find it hard to believe that he wasn’t a Christian. If not, he must have had significant interaction with individuals that were of that faith. This is a mystery surrounding the poet that will never be solved as he never openly declared his faith!
We do know several aspects about the Beowulf poet, his name unfortunately, is not one of them. We know that he was an Anglo-Saxon, as the poem is written in his language (Old-English), who must have had some contact with the Vikings. This would have been a strong possibility, as the Vikings had settlements in England between 680-1010 A.D. The central settings of the poem are Sweden, Denmark, and several names occur within the poem in association with Norse religion; these include Hermod and Woden. Beowulf is also described as a Viking by the poet. In addition, the Norse believed in the concept of Wyrd (pronounced ‘urd’) which translated means, “that which will happen.” It is mentioned several times within the poem, and seems to take on a female persona.

HOMEWORK:

2. Students were asked to complete their "take-home" quiz regarding "Idun's Apples" and "Necklace of the Brisings" (Due Monday)

If you missed class, please visit with me, so I can give you a "take-home" quiz

3. Students were asked to complete reading the "Introductory Information" given to them in class regarding "Beowulf"

I look forward to reading Beowulf with you next week.
Cheers,
Crampton

2011-05-02T17:44:00.000-06:00

BEOWULF and COMPLETION OF POETRY SHARING

Dear Mythology Students,

I hope you had an enjoyable weekend! For those of you who attended Prom, I enjoyed seeing you at the dance. I must say, that I think you "clean up" so well. Basically, you looked junoesque and apollonian.

HOMEWORK:

1. Locate an answer to the following questions concerning the epic poem Beowulf.

1. Who is the Beowulf poet? (Hint: You won't find a name for the poet, but you will discover some information about him in your research.)

2. The original poem was written using what language?

3. Why is the Beowulf poem so valuable?

4. Identify the three monsters destroyed by Beowulf?

5. How does Beowulf destroy each monster?

2. Research the above questions, using the Internet (use "Beowulf Manuscript" or "Beowulf Epic Poem") as your source. Print off a hard copy of your source (or sources, if you need more than one to obtain answers to the five questions), highlighting the answers to the questions within the body of the source.

3. Please read the following myths for Thursday. Please prepare for a quiz covering both myths.

4. Please notate the myths/5-8/page/ALL YOUR COLORS!

"Necklace of the Brisings" pgs. 65- 70
"Theft of Idun's Apples" pgs. 38-44

Oral Quiz on Wed.

2011-04-25T15:24:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

What did we do in class today?
1. We reviewed "The Mead of Poetry" and then submitted the corresponding notations.
2. We then started on "Treasure of the Gods"
3. Please notate (5/page/ALL COLORS) for each myths required for Wed.

Please make sure that you are prepared for your reading quiz scheduled for Wednesday. The myths that you need to have read are as follows;:
1. "Mead of Poetry" pgs. 26-322.
2. "The Treasures of the Gods" pgs. 48-53
3. "Njord and Skadi" pgs. 44

Your quiz will be different, again, as it is an oral quiz. I promise it will make sense when I see you on Wednesday. You will need to support your responses by using examples from the myths. MAKE SURE YOU READ THEM! The following questions will be used for the Socratic discussion we will have on Tuesday:

1.. The name “Bolverk” translated means “evil one.” Explain why you think Odin selected this name for the character he portrays in “Mead of Poetry.” Support your answers with examples from the myth.

2. Agree or disagree with the following statement by Odin, and then justify your response. “To be a poet, that is the finest calling.”

3. Consider the “host/guest” relationships within “The Mead of Poetry.” How are these relationships different and/or similar to those in the Greek myths? Support your idea with examples from “The Mead of Poetry” and any Greek myth.

4. The “quest for knowledge” is a strong motif in “The Mead of Poetry.” Primitive societies venerated poets in association with their leaders and gods; however, in some cultures the desire to learn was considered dangerous. Express your ideas concerning both “frames of thought.”

5. What could Sif’s hair represent? (What could it symbolize?) Explain your ideas.

6. What are Loki’s motive, both hidden and apparent, in the myth “Treasures of the Gods?” Explain.

7. Which group of gifts, in your opinion, is more superior? Support your reasoning.

In addition, don't forget that your memorized poem, and the explanation that goes along with it, are due on Friday, April 29nd. Please remember the following:

1. Make sure your poem is memorized
2. Make sure you have included a typed explanation as to why you value the poem and the meaning behind the piece.
3. Remember to include a copy of the poem beneath your explanation.

The role of fate in Norse Mythology

2011-04-21T07:34:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. Journal #12 "Fate vs. Choice"
Part 1: Are we victims of inescapable fate, or do we have the power to create our own destiny? Some believe that fate leaves them with feelings of helplessness, while others believe that a belief in fate gives them a sense of reassurance and comfort. What do you believe? Thoroughly explain your response. Indicate your impressions of the Norse belief in fate, specifically in relationship to the "power" and "lack of power" it provides the Norse gods.

Part 2: The film Serendipity focuses on the idea that fate controls our destiny. As you view the clip, discuss the legitimate and absurd aspects regarding the concept of fate depicted in the film.

2. We continued by discussing the journal entry. Fate is a strong motif in Norse myths; consequently, it is valuable to consider your own concepts regarding this topic.

3. We discussed two different motifs found within Norse literature.

4. We took our quiz covering the gods and the three myths that were assigned for today.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "The Mead of Poetry" (pg. 26) for Monday.
2. Please notate the myth with two questions/page. If it not necessary to record your questions in red. You should have a total of 14 questions, as there are seven pages to the myth. If you elect to have more, then extra-credit will be assigned.
3. Don't forget about your poetry piece!

Have a wonderful weekend!
Cheers,
Crampton

Welcome back, cute kids! You only have 6 weeks left, and you can make it!

2011-04-19T19:05:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
STOP MISSING CLASS! If you missed today, we completed the following:

1. I explained your new "poetry" assignment. Please visit with me to obtain the information regarding this assignment, and then I will refer you to one of your classmates for a detailed explanation.
2. We then reviewed the myths "War between the Aesir and Vanir," "Building Asgard's Wall," and "Loki's Children and the binding of Fenrir."
3. I returned each student's notations regarding the above myths. You submitted the notations the Friday prior to spring break. We then reviewed the questions you had asked and had a group discussion using your questions as a catalyst. YOU ASKED SOME VALID AND LOGICAL QUESTIONS!

HOMEWORK:

1. Plan on a quiz covering the gods and the three myths from #2 above on Thursday. You are welcome to create flashcards to assist you.
2. Please work on obtain your poem and completing the "write-up" for it. This assignment is due on Friday, April 29th!

Practice Quiz: Please choose the god that best fits each clue.

1. "It is so nice to meet you." ( What do you do when you first meet someone?) ____________
2. "Here kitty, kitty....." ________________
3. "The better to see you with, my dear." _________________
4. Malevolent, Mischievous, and Malicious _________________
5. "I love toy boats, especially if they can fold up and fit in my pocket." _____________
6. Salt water is excellent for my skin, because it acts as an exfoliate. _______________
7. He gave me a splitting headache. _______________
8. "Promise me that you won't lay a hand on him. " _________________
9. "If I could only relive my youth again." ______________
10. Black and White, Life and Death, Good and Evil _____________________

Welcome to the Runes

2011-04-04T10:24:00.000-06:00

Completion of the gods, unusual characters and introduction to the Runes

Dear Mythology Students,

Your homework for Wed., April 6th is the following:

1. Read the myth "Lord of the Gallows" pgs. 15-17
2. Read the purple handout in your packet entitled "Runes" (if you were ablsent)

3. Be prepared for a quiz covering #1 and #2 , the gods and the unusual characters on Wed.. In addition, we started our discussion of the Runes. Let me give you some schema regarding Runes, even though you will be reading the purple handout in your packet on the same subject.

WHAT ARE RUNES?

Runes are the letters of the ancient Scandinavian people. According to myth, the Runes were created by Odin. In his quest to obtain more knowledge, he stabbed and then hanged himself from Yggdrasil. As he was hanging, and of course, bleeding to death, the weight of his body forced dead branches from Yggdrasil to land in Gunnungagap. The branches fell in unusual patterns, hence creating the Runes. Originally, eighteen Runes were created, but as the Scandinavian language changed, more letters were required.

Each Rune represents a letter, has a sound, name, and has magical powers associated with it. Odin touches each of the eighteen Runes, and therefore he is given knowledge that other characters in Norse Mythology do not have. For example, one of the Runes taught Odin how to return from the dead. Another teaches him how to woo women. One Rune gives him the power to read and write....... Please read "Lord of the Gallows" for a detailed description of the power that each Rune possesses.

The Runes are placed around this rendering of Odin riding Sleipnir.

We covered an extensive amount of information today in class. We completed the back of your yellow sheet. YOU WILL HAVE A QUIZ ON WEDNESDAY covering our discussion today. If you complete your flashcards (28), you are welcome to use seven on your quiz. The following characters relate to your quiz:

Odin

Thor

Frigg (a)

Balder

Loki

Hel

Tyr

Heimdall

Hermod

Idun

Njord

Freyr

Frejya

Hugin

Mugin

Norns

Valkyries

Fenrir

Jormungand

Jotenheim

Jormungand

Ragnorok

Mjolnir

Slepnir

Vahalla

Aesir

Vanir

Asgard

Midgard

Ratatosk

I have also included a practice quiz. Remember you will receive extra-credit for completing the quiz.

PRACTICE QUIZ!
1. I am Odin's "thought." _________________
2. I am Odin's "Memory." _________________
3. Mother to Balder; Friday; weaves the clouds ______________
4. Loves gold; hates war ____________________
5. Strong senses _________________
6. Trickster _______________
7. The end of the Norse World is called ______________
8. I have eight legs. _______________
9. Wednesday ______________
10. The "heaven" in the land of the gods is called ____________
11. Loki is our father 11.______________12.______________13.____________
14. I have a special hammer _______________
15. Apples are my favorite fruit. _________________
16. Well of past, present and future ____________________

QUIZ Covering Yggdrasil

2011-03-31T15:29:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. Reviewed Yggdrasil, "The Creation Myth" and "First Humans"
2. We took the quiz and then corrected it. If you missed class, please plan on using a lunch period to take the quiz as it involves answering questions in relationship to some images.
3. We then continued with obtaining information about the Norse gods and unusual characters associated with them.

Homework:
1. Please research the Norse God attached to your desk, and develop a handout detailing information about your god. The explanation for the assignment is the blue sheet located in your packet. The handout is due on MONDAY along with your two sources. You must use a book source and the Internet.

B1
MADISON: Njord
HALEY: Loki

B2
KENDRA: Idun or Idunna

B4
No one missed class

2. Please read the "Pantheon" located on pages xxv-xxxii) in your book.
3. Plan on a quiz covering the Norse Pantheon on Wed. next week (April 6th)

We took the Norse Creation Quiz today in class!

2011-03-25T12:45:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
I hope you have a wonderful weekend! If you missed class on Friday, we completed the following:

1. We took the quiz covering "the creation" and then corrected it!
2. We then proceeded to complete all the sections associated with Yggdrasil. We started on this last time in class. Please start reviewing Yggdrasil, as you will have a quiz over the World Ash Tree on Thrusday.

HOMEWORK:

1. BACCHUS BASH is on TUESDAY, March 28th! Please come prepared with your b-day card and your food assignment.

2. Quiz covering Yggdrasil will occur on Thursday, March 31st!

3. Please read "The First Humans" for Thursday. This myth is located at the back of your packet.

4. Please read "The Creation" located in your book on pages. 3-6!

Cheers,
Crampton

We continued with the Norse Creation and then we moved on to Yggdrasil

2011-03-23T17:18:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
Please review my last post, as it discusses aspects that we reviewed today regarding Yggdrasil. If you missed class, we completed the following:

. Journal #11 "Review Quiz for Introductory Information about Norse Mythology"
1. Why are the Norse myths so morose?
2. Why is Snori Stulluson so important to you as a student studying mythology?
3. What does the term Edda mean?
4. Why are there allusions to Greek Mythology and Christianity within Norse Mythology?
5. Explain why a Viking is a Norseman, but not all Norsemen are Vikings?
6. How do we know that the Vikings reached the Black Sea? Please include an example form our class discussion and one from your textbook.
7. Identify one interesting aspect that you annotated for your homework assignment for today.
8. "                                                                                                                                    "
9. "                                                                                                                                    "
10. "                                                                                                                                  "

We then proceeded to complete the Norse Creation myth and we moved on to Yggdrasil.

Homwork:

1. Please read the "cosmology" section in your book (pgs. xx-xxv)
2. Plan on a quiz covering the information on Friday.
3. Please make flashcards for the 12 characters concerning the Creation Myth (note Niflheim to Yggdrasil on your flashcard sheet).
4. Bacchus Bash is TUESDAY....remember your card and food assignment!

Cheers,
Crampton

Welcome to Norse Mythology!

2011-03-21T15:20:00.000-06:00

Introduction to Norse Mythology

Dear Mythology Students,

Norse Mythology are the stories of the Scandanavian people. The Norse were extremely skilled at sea faring; consequently, they were exposed to different cultures. The Norse came upon the Romans, who in turn, hired them as mercenaries. The Roman culture was extremely advanced; consequently, the Norseman adopted some of their belief system into their own culture. This is why when we start to read the myths you will note some strong similarities to Greek Mythology. Remember that the Romans stole their religion from the Greeks. Another important point that you need to know involves the conversion of the Romans to Christianity. The Norseman continued to be influenced by the Roman culture, and therefore they also adopted Christian influences into their mythology, as well.

Everyone of you should have a new textbook, and a "packet" of handouts that will be used during the next two weeks. Your homework assignments for WED. include the following:

1. Please read pages xiv-xx in the "Introduction" section of your book.

2. Create a list of 20 notations from the reading that you found interesting.

3. THE BACCHUS BASH is on Tuesday, the 29th! Please remember your food assignment and your card!

Norse Mythology is difficult to fully explain in this forum, but I will do my best.......In the beginning, no formed matter exists. This enormous chasm of unorganized matter is called GUNNUNGAGAP! To the north of Gunnungagap is an immense area of frozen ice. This area is called NIFLHEIM.

To the south of Gunnungagap is an immense region of heat called MUSPELHEIM. Nothing exists but these two regions.
Suddenly these two regions begin to move closer together. The heat from Muspelheim causes the ice from Niflheim to melt and droplets of water land in Gunnungagap. Some how and I don't know exactly how this happens, and neither did the Nordic people, so you just have to accept it, two important beings are created at the same time......an enormous man called Ymir, who is also called a "frost giant" and a cow whose name is Adumla. I know, it's a little unusual.

Ymir begins to suck on the teats of Audumla, so she is nourishing this evil frost giant, and then he begins to "give birth" to other frost giants. As he is sucking on the teats of the cow, Ymir begins to sweat and his sweat morphs into other giants. In the mean time, Audumla begins to lick some of the ice from Niflheim that did not melt when Muspelheim moved close to it. Every place her saliva touches a human form is created. You can see this depicted in the image above. The individual that is created from the saliva is known as BURI. He is entirely positive. He, in turn, gives birth to two individuals; their names are BOR and BESTLA. Bor is a male and Bestla is a famale. These two have three children whose names are Odin, Vili, and Ve. Odin becomes the king of the Norse Gods because he is recognized as the "first born."

Odin, Vili, and Ve recognize that Ymir is "birthing" evil frost giants, so they feel compelled to destory him. Upon his murder they take his body and use it to create the world of humans, giants, and dwarfs known as Midgard.

WELCOME TO THE BACCHUS BASH!

2011-03-19T17:48:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
If you missed class, we completed the following:
1. Everyone was introduced to the "Bacchus Bash" which will take place on Tuesday, March 29. Everyone received the explanation for their "Birthday Card" assignment and a food assignment for the Bash. Please visit
with me if you missed class so that I can show you previous examples.

2. Each student received a copy of the question for their "take-home" quiz which is due on Monday.

3. Each student received a copy of the "Final Analysis" for Greek Mythology. Please visit with me upon your return so that I can give you a copy of this.

4. We then proceeded to take PART 2 of THE ODYSSEY quiz. When you return, you will need to visit with me about this.

URGENT! PLEASE REMEMBER TO HAVE YOUR MYTHOLOGY TEXT WITH YOU ON MONDAY, as we will begin NORSE MYTHOLOGY on MONDAY, and you will return your MYTHOLOGY BOOK for your NORSE TEXT!

I AM NO LONGER ACCEPTING MAKE-UP WORK!

We completed The Odyssey in class today!

2011-03-15T12:02:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following:
1. We reviewed the motifs located at the back of your storyboard. If you missed class, please complete the motif sheet by yourself. I would suggest visiting with a friend from Mythology to assist you.
2. We completed the storyboard and viewed a clip from The Odyssey.
3. We read two section from The Odyssey in class.

HOMEWORK:

1. STUDY FOR YOUR ODYSSEY QUIZ! There are two sections to your quiz. The first involves the six questions below. The second involves answering questions regarding actual text from the epic. If you have read your book and the sections concerning annotating, you will do well.
2. Please read and annotate the section of text that I gave you today (BLACK and one other color of your choice/ 7-10/page).

Your QUIZ covering The Odyssey will take place on Thursday, March 17th. I am actually considering giving it to you as a take home quiz, but I haven't come to a definite conclusion on that idea yet. We'll see......Anyway, I have posted the 6 questions for your quiz below. Remember that you will "blindly" CHOOSE ONE for your quiz. You may use your book, storyboard, and annotated pieces of text. The questions are essay in nature, and you MUST SUPPORT your ideas with examples from the The Odyssey. HINT: I would thoroughly consider each question making notes on each one. Those notes may be submitted for extra-credit points for your quiz.

#1. Trace Homer's thematic approach to "appearance vs. reality" in The Odyssey. Discuss the importance of this theme to events within the epic. Include three examples from your book and/or annotated texts to support your response.

#2. Discuss the literary element of Dramatic Irony found in The Odyssey. Remember that Dramatic Irony occurs when the audience has knowledge that the character(s) within the text do not. Identify three examples of Dramatic Irony within the epic poem. An explanation as to why irony heightens the reader's interest in The Odyssey is compulsory.

#3. Discuss the thematic approach concerning "identity" in The Odyssey. An explanation regarding the positive and negative effects of maintaining anonymity in contrast to identifying oneself must be part of your response. Identify three examples from your textbook I or annotated texts to support your points.

#4. Discuss the characters of Penelope and Telemachus in association with being "worthy partner" for Odysseus. Support your response with three textual examples.

#5. The concept regarding "power of cunning over strength" is a valid theme in The Odyssey. Discuss this thematic view, and the role it plays in the epic poem. Support your points with three textual examples.

#6. The customs involving "guest and host" were highly venerated in ancient Greek culture. Homer clearly valued these customs, and he recognized the role of the gods if these customs were not followed. Support Homer's view by explaining and indicating three examples from your textbook and/or your annotated sources.

I look forward to seeing you on THURSDAY.
Cheers,
Crampton

Dramatic Irony within The Odyssey.....

2011-03-14T09:18:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I hope you are enjoying your "Snow Day!" I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday. If you missed class on Thursday, we completed the following:

1. Journal #10: "Introduction to The Odyssey"
Students were asked to identify 7-10 aspects from their reading assignment entitled "Introduction to The Odyssey" that they found fascinating.

2. We then continued with The Odyssey storyboard;we will complete it on Tuesday.

3. We also viewed a section from the film The Odyssey pertaining to Lacoon and the Trojan Horse.

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read pages 203-210 in your textbook starting with "Paris was no great loss......"
2. Please read page 2210-229 in your textbook.
3. Please read, annotate/notate (7-10 only BLACK and then another color of your choosing) the texts that were given to you last class period. If you missed class, then I would ask a friend if you can make a copy of their information.

REMEMBER THAT ALL MISSING WORK NEEDS TO BE MADE UP BY THE 18th!

2011-03-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

The Journey of Odysseus....

Dear Mythology Kids,

Welcome to The Odyssey, by Homer. We started this amazing piece of literature on Tuesday., March 8th We will read some of the text in class, but I will also ask that you read part of it at home. I gave each student a "storyboard," which is an effective way of "breaking" the epic "a part" so that you can understand it better when you actually read it. If you did miss class on Tuesday, please make sure that you obtain this information from someone that was present.

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read the article entitled "Introduction to The Odyssey." Please annotate/notate (7-10/page) using ALL YOUR COLORS for Thursday.
2. Please read pages 211-220 in your book.
Cheers,
Crampton

ILIAD "Quest" was administered today!

2011-03-04T11:20:00.002-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

STOP MISSING CLASS, GUYS! When do you expect to take your "ILIAD QUEST?"

1. We took the quest and then corrected it.

HOMEWORK:
1. Your monologue is due on Tuesday!

Cheers,
Crampton

We reviewed for your ILIAD Quest

2011-03-02T11:49:00.002-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

How are you doing? Hang in there, cute kids, as you only have three months until you move on to other amazing opportunities. Please let me know if I can assist you in any way.

WHAT DID I MISS? Well, let me tell you.....

1. I explained a new assignment to you.. In essence, I am asking that you consider the characters within the Iliad, and write a monologue for one character. Please see the assignment explanation below. Sorry, guys, the document is not loading on the blog. I will do my best to correct this. In the mean time, please stop by my room and collect a hard copy of the assignment. THIS ASSIGNMENT IS DUE ON TUESDAY, MARCH 8TH!

2. We then had a journal entry where you watched a clip from TROY, and identified the inaccuracies. This was journal #8 for you.

3. We then proceeded to review for the "quest" by completing a "time-line" of events within the epic.

4. We finished class by reading the interaction between Achilles and Priam.

HOMEWORK:

1. Prepare for your "Iliad Quest," which will take place on Friday., March 4th. There are four sections to the "Quest:"

2. "Iliad Quest" will take place on Friday., March 4th. There are 66 questions on your assessment.

Part 1 (1-31): Quotes from your presentations and from The Iliad in your textbook (pgs. 185-200)
Part 2: (32-35) Movie clips from the film Helen of Troy
Part 3: (36-40) Images associated with significant events within the epic
Part 4: (41-66) Events within The Iliad and The Odyssey

3. Please read "Niobe" pgs. 249-250

4. Please read "Pygmalion" pgs. 112-115

NOTE: These myths relate to the characters of Artemis and Aphrodite, and will heighten your understanding of the two goddesses. Questions due appear on your "quest" from "Niobe" and "Pygmalion."

Odysseus, King of Ithaca, "inventor" of the Trojan Horse
B1:1."When the moment came to stand by his sacred oath, Odysseus pretended to be mad, as it had been revealed to him in a prophecy that should he go to war, he would not return for twenty years. His duplicity was reveal when Palemedes placed Odysseus' son, Telemachus, in front of the plough. Odysseus avoided the child, proving he was of reasonable mind. He was compelled to join Menelaus' army.

2. "Once at war he proved to be a shrewd and wise general. In Greek myths the idea of the Wooden Horse, which defeated the Trojans and led to the destruction of the city, is Odysseus' idea."

B4:
1. same as b2
2. same as b2

AJAX, the Greater
B1
1. "So awe inspiring Ajax, a tower of strength for the Greeks, rose and went into battle."
2. "He spoke little and slowly, but he had a good heart and tremendous courage."
B2
Presentation will take place on Thursday
B4
1."He is not wounded in any of the battles described in The Iliad, and he is the only principal character on either side who does not receive personal assistance from any of the gods who take part in the battles. "As such, he embodies the virtues of hard work and perseverance."
2. "They were soon rallied by Ajax, who, next to matchless Achilles, was the best-looking and best fighter of all the Greeks. He charged through the front of the line, fierce as a wild boar in the mountains who easily scatters the hounds and lively young huntsmen as it turns at bay in the glades. So glorious Ajax charged and easily scattered the ranks of Trojans, who had gathered round Patroclus and made up their minds that they were going to win the glory and drag his body into the city."

AJAX, the Lesser (Sorry, I couldn't find an image of him that I liked)
B1
1. "Ajax, not the great Ajax, of course, who was dead, but a lesser chieftain of the same name--tore her from the altar and dragged her from the sanctuary."
2."Not one Greek protested against the sacrilege. Athena's wrath was deep. She to Poseidon and laid her wrongs before him. "Help me to vengeance," she said. "Give the Greeks a bitter homecoming. Stir up the waters with wild whirlwinds when they sail. Let dead men choke the bays and line the shores and reefs."
B2
Presentation will occur on Thursday.
B4
1."Athena herself threw a thunderbolt at Ajax's ship and sank it, but he swam ashore boasting that he had defied the anger of teh gods and escaped with is life."
2. "Yet there you are mouthing off as usual, and there is absolutely no need for it. There are many better men here than you, Ajax."

PRACTICE QUIZ
IDENTIFY the character from the underlined pronoun.

1. He carried his lame and aged father and led his son, Ascanius, by the hand as the battlements burned to the ground. __________________________
2. "Take my armor. I am a man dishonored. I will not fight for men who have disgraced me. " __________
3. "When the Greeks sacked the city of Troy, she was in Athena's temple clinging to her image." _________
4. "A man that cannot live nobly can die nobly.' He drew his sword and killed himself." _____________
5."Not even for Achilles sake could he stay longer away from the battle. ___________________
6."He was brave and bold, but he was most famous for his cunning tricks, not normally associated with heroes." __________________
7. "A haunting net. Death's weapon of attack! And she who hunts is she who shared his bed." ___________
8. "He would kill me unarmed, as if I were a woman. Better to join the battle with him now even if I were to die." __________________
9."She knew that she must die so that the men could battle, although deceived, she bravely went to the alter."________________
10. "The cause of all this agony and death, yet as they looked at her, they could not feel any blame." ____________
11. "He was arrogant, deceitful and incredibly hateful toward the gods, especially Athena." ______________
12. "He took the girl, from Achilles, and therefore caused the destruction of so many." ______________

Cheers,
Crampton

Continueed with Iphigenia, Clytemnestra, Hector and Odysseus

2011-02-23T11:57:00.001-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

STOP MISSING CLASS!
If you did miss class, we completed the following on Tuesday, February 22

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read the first half of The Iliad in your BOOK! The epic is located on pages 185- to the top of 195. Please do not read beyond this point.

Clytemnestra, Queen of Mycenae, wife to Agamemnon, mother to Iphigenia, sister to Helen of Sparta

Sacrifice of Iphigenia, daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra

B1:1. "When she came to her wedding she was carried to the alter to be killed by her father."
2. "She would only send a favorable wind if the king propitiated her by offering up Iphigenia, the most beautiful of his daughters, as a sacrifice to the goddess."

B2:1. Same as B1
2. "Iphigenia was a tragic heroine. She was the first person to have her life flipped upside down because of the Trojan War and it was her death which allowed the Greek fleet to set sail for Troy. Iphigenia was extremely brave and she is the reason why the entire war was able to continue."

HECTOR

1."If I kill you, I will give you back to your friends and you do the same for me."

2. "My doom has come upon me; let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first do some great thing that may be told among men hereafter."

1. Same as b2

2. Same as b1

2. "Once at war he proved to be a shrewd and wise general. In Greek myths the idea of the Wooden Horse, which defeated the Trojans and led to the destruction of the city, is Odysseus' idea."

B4:
We did not complete Odysseus.

Introduction to PRIAM, PARIS and HELEN

2011-02-16T14:49:00.000-07:00

First day of Iliad Character Presentations

Dear Mythology Kids,

For Mondfay, February 14th we discussed three characters. These included Priam, Helen, and Paris. I have included an image of each character below, and the quotes that were chosen by the groups for each class. I would review the quotes for EACH CLASS, as doing so will give you insights into each character, and the QUOTES will appear on your "Iliad Quest."

HOMEWORK:

None

Priam, King of Troy, begging Achilles to relinquish the body of Hector

Paris, Prince of Troy, Pansy

Helen, "the face that launched a thousand ships"

B1:

1. "If only death had pleased me then, grim death, that day I followed your son to Troy, forsaking my marriage bed, my kinsmen and my children."

I hope this assists those of you that were not in class on Tuesday!

Cheers,

Crampton

Vocabulary QUIZ

2011-02-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class on Wed., Feb. 9th, we completed the following:

1. JOURNAL #7: "Troy"
Students watched a film detailing the archaeological aspects regarding Troy. There journal entry involved listing the aspects concerning the film which they found interesting.
2. The remainder of the period was occupied with taking the Vocabulary Quiz.

If you missed class on Friday, Feb. 11th, we completed the following:

1. Students were given time to work in the lab regarding the creation of their Power Point Presentation for their Iliad character.

HOMEWORK:
1. Remember that presentations begin on Tuesday, February 15th!
2. Please have your handout available to each student and the PowerPoint saved to a USB for Tuesday.
If you need me to make your copies, I need your original handout not later than 1:15 on Monday.

Have a great weekend!

Iliad Characters

2011-02-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

"Characters”Creating Homer’s" was explained to you today!

In order to fully grasp any literary work it is essential to gain an awareness of the characters. This assignment will assist you in developing a strong understanding of the primary characters in The Iliad, and strengthen your knowledge of the epic’s plot line.

You and your partner have selected one of the following characters from the epic.Priam
Paris
Hector (Andromache/ Astanax)
Cassandra
Aeneas
Menelaus
Agamemnon
Achilles (Peleus/Thetis)
Patroclus
Odysseus
Ajax (Greater)
Ajax (Lesser)
Clytemnestra
Iphigenia
Helen

Your assignment is to create a Power Point Presentation of your character and enlighten us on his/her significant to The Iliad. You will have the opportunity to do this through the use of you textbook (pgs. 185-210) and other sources (the handouts I have provided for you, and the Internet sources found by you and your partner).. In order to successfully complete this assignment, you will need to do some research.

Requirements for visual representation: Part ICharacter’s name
“Greek” or “Trojan”
Biography of your character
1.Connection to other characters in the epic
2. Personality traits (interpreted through research)
3. Outcome of the character
4. Death? How? Who was involved?
5. Imprisoned? Why?
6. Concubines? Circumstances?

Five quotes from The Iliad (found within your textbook/pgs. 185-210) and other sources (ones I provided for you and your Internet Information) to indicate personality traits of your character.
* A total of five quotes are required. Three of these quotes must come from your textbook. The remaining two need to come from the other source material that you use for your research.
Two Images of character

5. Neat, organized, thorough, and creative.

HOMEWORK:
1. Remember that you will have a quiz on Wed. covering your vocabulary words!
2. The seven sources required for your research assignment are due on Friday. Remember that I will review each of them. YOUR INTERNET SOURCE must be annotated and notated.

Let me know if if I can assist you in any way.

Cheers,
Crampton

Introduction to Troy and Desk-Top Teaching

2011-02-05T19:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
If you missed class on Thursday, we completed the desk-top teaching lessons, and they were so well done! I am proud of your creative and effective approaches! Please NOTE that you will have a quiz covering the vocabulary words on WED. FEB., 9th!

Remember that you will have a QUIZ on MONDAY, FEBRUARY 7th regarding the introductory information regarding TROY!

Homework:

1. Your Five Paragraph Film Essay Revision, is due on Wed.! If you missed class, please visit with a friend regarding this assignment. I can give you you the explanation when you return on Thursday.

In order to be prepared for Thursday's quiz, please familiarize yourself with the following:

1.Did the Trojan War actually take place? If so, what was the cause?

2. Why is Henrik Scheilmann important to Troy?

3. Explain Scheilmann's archaeological approach? Why was it inappropriate?

4. How is the "Mound of Hissarlik" significant to Scheilmann?

5. Eris' golden apple....How is it relevant to The Iliad's plot line?

6. How does The Iliad begin?

7. Why are the events within The Iliad relevant to events within The Odyssey?

8. Make sure you can define the term "epic."

THIS IS THE HANDOUT used in our class discussionHomer's Epic of TroyThe IliadMythology,

Mrs. Kori Crampton

Introduction:What is an epic?
The Iliad:

Ilium:
Acheans:
The Odyssey:Did the Trojan War actually take place and what was the cause?
Who discovered the ancient city of Troy?
“Road Map:”
“Schliemann's scar:”
Using a well read copy of The Iliad as his reference guide, he chose a spot on the Asian coast of Turkey called the Mound of Hissarlik, and began digging for the famous city of Troy. In the course of four years, he uncovered nine successive cities built on top of each other. The sixth city he declared the “City of Troy,” or as Schliemann called it the “Burnt City.” Later archaeologists through carbon dating and additional archaeological discoveries, proved that Schliemann's choice was accurate. What was once thought to be myth had been proven historically correct.

What we know about Homer.....
Many scholars have asked the question, “Were the epic poems of The Iliad and The Odyssey written by one poet or were they collective efforts on the part of several poets?” We will never know the answer to this question. Most scholars agree that “a Homer” existed, that he lived in the 8th or 9th century B.C., and that he was a well-known poet. Some references to Homer indicate that he was blind, which has been interpreted as a “sign of his greatness.” We know that Homer had a strong command of the written language, and that at one point he could see. His love for beauty and gory details are too advanced, especially for someone who might have been blind his entire life. He lived about 500 years after the events at Troy; therefore, the story he told was not original with him, but had been passed down in the oral tradition of the times.

Allow me to share two excerpts from The Iliad with you.
“...the spear of bronze went through
Below the brain and shattered the white bones,
Dashed out his teeth, and filled his eyes with blood;
And blood he spurted gaping through his mouth
And nose; and death's dark cloud encompassed him.”
Book XVI, lines 345-350

“Then answered Hector of the flashing helm,
His strength all gone: 'I beg thee by my life,
Thy knees, thy parents, leave me not for dogs
Of the Acheans by the ship to eat,
But rather take abundant stores of bronze and gold-
My king and queenly mother will give it thee-
And render back my body to my home,
So that the Trojans and the Trojans' wives
May give me due meed of fire in death.'

But scowling at him swift Achilles said,
“Do not entreat me, dog, by knees or parents ,
I only wish I had the heart and will
To hack the flesh off thee and eat it raw......”
Book XXII, lines 317-330

We "played Hercules" with the Wee-Wolves!

2011-01-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, I am so sorry! We had so much fun sharing our stories with the Wee-Wolves! This is what we completed in class:

1. I explained your "DESKTOP Teaching Assignment." If you missed class, PLEASE COME SEE ME, as the assignment is fun, but you need to see how it is accomplished. The assignment is due on Thursday, Feb. 3rd.
2. I then identified the mosaics that were selected from each class...WELL DONE! All of them will be on display in the library for the next two weeks.
3. We then took a few minutes to dress in our costumes and then we headed to the wee-wolves! I will post the pictures when I return home. IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!

Enjoy your weekend!
Cheers,
Kori

STORYBOOKS....WOW!

2011-01-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following:
1. Everyone submitted their storybooks, and they are delightful! I look forward to sharing them with the Wee-Wolves.

2. We then reviewed for the "Mythological Allusions" quiz by discussing the practice quiz.

3. We took the "Mythological Allusions" quiz and corrected it.

HOMEWORK:
1. Your Mythological Allusions assignment is due on Wednesday. Remember that two of your examples need to come from the white sheet.

Cheers,
Crampton

Mythological Allusions and References

2011-01-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I hope you have an enjoyable weekend. Please remember the following concerning your HOMEWORK assignments:

1. Your completed (laminated and bound) storybook are due Monday. Don't forget that each page needs to contain an image, text and dialogue. In addition, do not forget your three euphemisms. They should be identified with underlined text.
2. Your Mythological Allusions assignment is due on Wednesday, January 26th. You need five references and/or allusions. Remember that two examples must come from the white paper attached to your explanation sheet.
3. QUIZ on MONDAY identifying mythological allusions in literature. Check out the blog below for a practice quiz.

WHAT DID WE DO IN CLASS TODAY?
We worked in our groups and discussed the references and allusions in the poem assigned to each group. This was in essence practice for your quiz on Monday and your assignment due on Wed.

PRACTICE QUIZ:
. You will have a quiz on MONDAY, Jan 24th where you will be asked to identify references and allusions to mythology found in several pieces of poetry. I gave everyone who was in class on Thursday, a list of the subjects associated with the poems you will evaluate for your quiz. To prepare for the "official" quiz, you should review the following characters: Fates, Prometheus, Aphrodite, Muses, Cupid, Demeter, Persephone, the Greek Underworld, Odysseus and Penelope, and Perseus.

The following is your practice quiz. Please note the BOLD pieces of text. The number next to the text is associated with the corresponding question.

"As an oak tree falls on the hillside
Crushing all that lies beneath,
So, he presses out the life, #1.
The brute's savage life, and now it lies dead. #2.
Only the head sways slowly, but the horns
are useless now."

1. Identify the "he." _________________
2. Identify the "brute." ___________________

"So impressed with all you do.
Tried so hard to be like you.
Flew too high and burnt the wing. #3
Lost my faith in everything."

3. Identify who is being alluded to in this line of text. _________________

"Tis, Apollo come leading his choir, the Nine. #4

4. Identify the "Nine," and explain why the word "choir" is used in connection with them and Apollo.

"He, the first born from out the purple grape #5.
Crushed the sweet poison of misused wine."

5. Identify the "he." _________________________

Dame Helen caused a grievous fray. #6

6. What does the poet mean by "grievous fray?"

"In the last light of the day his tragic song became "Farewell."
It is said that he made his earth-journey and lost what he sought. #7
It is said that they felled him and cup up his limbs for firewood. #8
And it is said his head sang and was swept away out to sea singing.
For him, the music was more mellifluous than any heard before. #9/ #10

7. Explain this allusion.
8. Explain why this event has taken place?
9. Identify the "him."
10. Explain this last line. "Mellifluous," by the way, means "beautiful to the ears."

Good Luck! I hope you have a great weekend!
Cheers,
Crampton

Welcome Back from HUMAN RIGHTS DAY!

2011-01-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class on Tuesday, January 18th, 2011 you were introduced to the concepts of "Allusion" and "Reference," and the role of mythological allusions and references found in literary work. Please visit with a classmate in order to obtain this information.

HOMEWORK:

1. Your Mythological Allusions assignment is due on Wed., Jan. 26th. If you missed class, please visit with a friend and then stop by and chat with me, so that I can give you the explanation sheets for your assignment.

2. Don't forget that your story book is due on Monday, January 24th. If you would like me to laminate it for you then I need the finished product on THURSDAY, JANUARY 20th BEFORE B1.

Cheers,

Crampton

Cheers, Crampton

Your Mosaics Are Breathtaking! I am so impressed with your efforts!

2011-01-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I am so impressed with your hard work concerning your mosaics...WELL DONE!

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. Everyone submitted their mosaic!
2. We then worked with our partners concerning the "Hercules" storybook assignment.
3. REMEMBER: The book is due on the 24th, but you will have two new assignments next week that will cause you to think. I would complete as much of your storybook over the weekend as possible.

Enjoy the long weekend!
Cheers,
Crampton

TWO VOACBULARY WORDS and HERACLES STORYBOOK

2011-01-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. We completed the remaining two vocabulary words. Visit with a friend in class to obtain the definitions and etymologies.

Mmemonic
Rhadamanthine

2. Everyone submitted their "FILM HERO" essays.

3. We worked in our groups concerning the creation of the storybooks for Heracles.

HOMEWORK:

1. Remember that your MOSAIC is due on THURSDAY!
2. Your storybook is due on MONDAY, JANUARY 24th.

Cheers,
Crampton

Back to school with Hercules or is it Heracles...both!

2011-01-05T09:47:00.001-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,
If you missed class, we accomplished the following in class:

Don't forget that you will have a QUIZ covering the irony found within the myth of "Heracles," and how those aspects of irony add to the pathos experienced by our hero on Friday!

"How do I prepare for the quiz, Crampton?"

"Make sure you have read the myth of Heracles found on page 166 in your textbook. In addition, review the storyboard that we worked on in class on Wed. The examples of irony that we identified together will be the questions for your quiz.

"Will there be extra credit for this quiz?"

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read "Heracles" pages 166-179

2. Quiz covering Heracles will take place on Friday.

3. Five Paragraph Essay due on Tuesday, Jan. 11th

4. Mosaic due on Thursday, Jan. 13th

NOTE: ALL MAKE-UP WORK is due on FRIDAY. HOMEWORK COUPONS are also due on FRIDAY!

Cheers,

Crampton

Mosaic Work and Theseus Quiz

2010-12-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class on Wednesday, December 8th and Friday December 10th, we completed the following:

1. On Wednesday, students took their "caught in the labyrinth" of T.H.S. quiz. If you missed this assessment, I am so sorry, as we had fun. You will need to take the "quintessential" quiz prior to the break.
2. In addition, I reviewed each student's mosaic subject and works citation.

2. On Friday we worked on tracing the mosaic subjects and then we began working on the mosaics.

Cheers,
Crampton

We had a history lesson today concerning Theseus and the Minotaur!

2010-12-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, this is what we did:
1. You had a history lesson on the Minoan culture and their connection to the myth of "Theseus and the Minotaur." Please visit with someone in class, concerning this information.
2. You saw several different images associated with the Minoan culture and how certain practices relate to the myth.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Theseus and the Minotaur" pgs. 155-165 for WEDNEDAY.
2. Please read "Daedalus" pgs. 144-145 for WEDNESDAY, as well.
3. YOU QUIZ WILL TAKE PLACE ON WEDNEDAY. You will "be caught in the labyrinth" of T.H.S. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
4. Your chosen mosaic subject and works cited page are due on Wednesday. Please make sure your subject is printed on the mosaic.

Cheers,
Crampton

Welcome to your Mosaic assignment....

2010-12-02T11:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. I introduced the mosaic assignment to each class today. Originally I had planned to explain the assignment to you on Friday, Dec. 10th; however, several students will be gone for an AP Art History field trip. I realize that some students missed class today, due to other obligations, but more students will be gone on the 10th. I was caught between a "scylla and a charybdis" with this decision. I felt the "lesser of two evils" was to explain the assignment to you today.

What is a mosaic? A piece of artwork that is comprised of many different pieces. Please see the examples of mosaics below.

Why were they so important to the ancient Greeks? They took the subjects from their mythology and literally cemented them into mosaic artwork.

Nemean Lion

Demeter

Medusa

I look forward to seeing the subjects you have chosen for your mosaics. For those of you that missed class on Tuesday, we completed the following:

1. Introduction of your "Mosaic Assignment"

•Your mosaic must be at least 11 x 17 in size

•The subject may be any aspect associated with our study of Classical Mythology (gods, lesser gods, heroes, monsters, and specific myths and their characters)

•You need to be passionate about your selection.

•If you elect to draw the subject, extra-credit will be given

•If your mosaic is larger than the required size, extra-credit will be given

•Choose a subject for your mosaic and have an overhead transparency prepared of the subject for WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8th. This is an assignment! Your transparency is due at the beginning of class on Wednesday. I gave every student a transparency. I suggest google images for a valid location to look for strong images. Mrs. Gull will make your transparency for you in the copy center, PRIOR to WED. SHE CAN NOT MAKE THE TRANSPARENCY FOR YOU ON WEDNESDAY!

•50 points will be given for each day you come prepared to work on your mosaic. You will be given Friday, Dec. 10th, Tuesday, December 14th and Thursday, December 16th to work on your mosaic in class.

2. We took the quiz concerning "Perseus" in class.

HOMEWORK:
1. Take-home quiz concerning the nine traits of the hero and the interview between Joseph Cambell (mythology expert) and Bill Moyers (NBC corespondent) is due on MONDAY!
2. Mosaic subject on a transparency is due on WED., DEC. 8th.
3. Create a "works cited" page for you mosaic source. If you located your subject from any other source than your mind, then you must reference the source. This is also due on WED.
Have a great weekend, and I look forward to seeing you on Monday.

Cheers,
Crampton

We completed the 9 Traits of the Hero and Perseus

2010-11-30T15:16:00.001-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

Welcome back! I hope you enjoyed your break. If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. Completed our discussion of the nine traits associated with heroes. I have included them for you below:

Heroes in ancient Greek were given this title because they experienced what is known as PATHOS, or in other words, they suffered more than other individuals. Through their suffering they became stronger.

•1. They are flawed.

•2. They experience PATHOS, or they suffer more than the average person

•3. They are "Born" : There are two types of "births"

•a. They are conceived in an unusual manner

•b. The hero is "born" when they realize that they possess

•4. They are always assisted by a "goddess" (female character)

•5. They marry/associated with someone that causes them great pain and anguish

•6. They experience what is known as an "IGNITION EVENT." This event is usually, but not always, tragic. It causes them to "ignite" into action.

•7. They are faced with physical and emotional challenges.

•8. Through these challenges they become enlightened (more knowledgeable/physically and emotionally stronger)

•9. Their deaths are usually violent.

•NOTE: Heroes experience at least 6 out of the 9 qualities

ARCHETYPE: This term is important, as you will hear it frequently in Mythology. An archetype is a pattern of traits that characters possess that qualify them as certain character types. For example, characters that possess the traits included above would be qualified as an archetypal hero.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Perseus" pages. 146-154
2. You will have a quiz covering "Perseus" on Thursday.
3. Please review the nine character traits, as you will have a "take-home" quiz given to you on Thursday. The quiz is due on Monday. You will submit your nine-trait sheet and your interview prior to taking the quiz.
4. Please read the article entitled "The Hero's Adventure." Annotate/ Notate 5-8/page/using ALL your colors for Thursday. I have placed several copies of the article outside my room on the bulletin board. This article will be part of your "take-home" quiz.

We completed your presentations today in class...WELL DONE!

2010-11-19T11:16:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Students,

I am so proud of you! Your presentations have been helpful and thorough in giving your peers schema concerning the "hero myths."

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. We finished the presentations for the following characters:
              a. Andromeda/Casseopeia
              b. Chrion/Eris
              c. Ganymede/Iris
              d. Cupid/Chimera
              e. Pan/Midas

HOMEWORK:
1. Remember that your Nature Myth Revision is due on Tuesday!
2. QUIZ covering the characters associated with Perseus, Theseus, Achilles and Bellerophon will take place on TUESDAY. Check out the practice quiz below.

PRACTICE QUIZ:

1. We have never known the benefits of youth. _____________ (we) ____________(hero)
2. I "own" a cement company. ____________ (I) ________________ (hero)
3. "Do you need some thread for your shoe?" _______________(character) ___________ (hero)
4. Because you abandoned my wife, I will make you forget the colors of black and white _____________ (my wife) _____________ (hero)
5. "My love for it is so full of bull." ___________ (associated monster) __________(hero)
6. My son and I are imprisoned in a labyrinth. ________________ (I) _______________ (hero)
7. I excel at creating decoy cows, mazes, and wings. __________( I) ___________(hero)
8. My mother is the guilty party. I am innocent of arrogance towards the gods. __________ (I) _____________ (hero)
9. I taught Achilles the art of warfare. ____________(I) ____________(hero)
10. I helped my true love collect the beauty of Persephone. _____________ (I)
11. I love roller-coasters because I value hanging upside down. __________(I) ____________ (hero)
12. "Nurse" of Contention _____________(nurse) ____________(hero)

I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday.
Cheers,
Crampton

The Minotaur, Daedalus, Ariadne, Dionysus, Medusa and Graea were discussed today!

2010-11-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class today, we reviewed the following characters:

1. Minotaur/Daedalus
2. Ariadne/ Dionysus
3. Medusa/Graea

We also took the quiz concerning Odysseus and the characters associated with him.

HOMEWORK:
1. I returned the "Peer Review" assignment for your nature myths. I asked each student to revise their myth based upon the feedback received from their evaluator. This is due on Tuesday, November 23. Please remember to submit your final draft with the peer review.

2. Start reviewing for your quiz covering the characters associated with Perseus, Theseus, Achilles and Belleraphon for TUESDAY, November 23rd.

We completed the characters associated with Odysseus today in class!

2010-11-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I am so proud of your work concerning your presentations! Well done, "young Athenas!"

For those of you that missed class, we completed the following:
1. We took and corrected the quiz concerning "Heracles."
2. We completed the following characters associated with Odysseus:
             a. Circe/Tieriseis
             b. Scylla/Charybdis
             c. Calypso/Sirens

HOMEWORK:
1. QUIZ covering the characters associated with The Odysseys. Please see the practice quiz below.
2. Please read "Glacus and Scylla" pgs. 296-297

PRACTICE QUIZ:

1. "Drugs, enjoy them while they last." ______________
2. "Let's eat human kabobs for dinner. "______________
3. Odysseus and his crew helped themselves to my stores of cheese and milk.____________
4. "Do not eat the cattle of the sun god, Helios." _________________
5. God of the winds. _______________
6. We are "dying" to hear their song. __________________
7. My friend and I have a habit of not keeping our boyfriends for long. I've had six in the last few days, and she's had so many that I've lost count (any order).
7. ________________________ 8. _____________________
9. "You will set him free, or your little island will find itself at the bottom of Poseidon's sea. " ___________________ (B1 and B2 only)
1o. "Let's see...what animal does your male psyche resemble the most." _____________
11. Comes to her island after the destruction of Odysseus' men. ______________ (B4 only)

I look forward to seeing you on Wed.
Cheers,
Crampton

We completed the "characters" associated with Hercules today in class!

2010-11-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I am so proud of those that presented concerning Heracles; you have clearly done your research! In preparation for your quiz on Thursday, I have included a "practice quiz" for you below.

For those of you you missed class today, Thursday, November 11th we discussed the following characters associated with Heracles.....Nessus/Geryon/ Hebe/ Muses. In order to be prepared for the quiz on Monday, I would contact a friend that is currently in Mythology, or learn more about the characters through research. We also started our discussion concerning characters associated with Odysseus (Lotus-eaters/Laestragonians/Polyphemus/Aelous).
.

Practice Quiz covering "Characters associated with Heracles"

1."Stop acting so juvenile." _____________/_____________ (she has a Roman name)
2. "My car was stuck in the snow." _______________
3. We hate the sound of baby rattles. _______________
4. French, German, Latin, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Greek, Turkish, Arabic...the list could reach 100. __________________
5. While at the beach, a crab bit my heel (labor). ______________
6. "Hey, boss, you taste like chicken." ______________
7. Apollo is our master . ______________
8. Golden horns and bronze hooves _____________
9. Apples are a precious gift that must always be guarded ______________
10. "What a beautiful fur coat you have."
"Thank-you, it's made of steal." _________________
11."I would have gladly given him my belt." __________________
12. "Love Potion" ____________
13. Foul Fowls ________________
14. Third and immortal wife of Heracles_____________/_____________
15. My blood is toxic _____________
16. I am suffering from cancer (labor) _______________.

I look forward to seeing you on Monday.

We started with the Lesser Gods and the Monsters associated with Heracles today!

2010-11-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

We began our presentations today! Each group distributed their handout to every class member, and the PowerPoint Presentations were given to me. I will return your jump drives on Thursday. If you missed class then you are responsible for obtaining the handouts from your peers.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please remember to evaluate the nature myth that was given to you last week. Remember to include 5-8 notations/page. In addition, don't forget to answer the questions on the bright pink rubric.
This is the order of the presentations:
Heracles/Hercules

1. Eurystheus/Nemean Lion
Nemean Lion

2. Hydra/Boar

3. Cerynian Hind and Stymphalian Birds

4. Man-eating mares of Diomedes/Amazons
5. Hesperides/Ladon
6. Geryon/Nessus
7. Hebe/Muses

Odysseus:
8. Lotus-eaters/Laestragonians
9. Polyphemus/Aeolus
10. Circe/Tieresies
11. Scylla/Charybdis
12. Sirens/Calypso

Theseus
13. Minotaur/Daedalus
14. Ariadne/Dionysus
15. Pan/Midas

Perseus
16. Medusa/Grey Witches
17. Andromeda/Casseopeia

Achilles
18. Chiron/Eris
19. Iris/Ganymede
20. Cupid/Chimera

We will continue with Heracles on Thursday. Your QUIZ covering Heracles will take place on Monday, November 15th

Library on Wednesday and Writing Lab on Friday...

2010-11-04T17:20:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class on Wednesday, we spent our time researching in the library and completing our "Power Point " Organization" sheet.

If you missed class on Friday, we completed the following:

1. I gave each student who initially submitted a nature myth another student's paper to peer review. The peer review is due on Thursday! Each nature myth had a specific review form attached to it. If you missed class on Friday, please visit with me so I can give you the myth that you will review.

2. We then headed for the computer lab, where students work on developing their power points and handouts. PLEASE REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING for your HOMEWORK:
                 1. Your assignment is due on Tuesday. You will need 36 copies of the handout.
                 2. Your power point needs to be saved to a USB which you will give to me on Tuesday.
                 3. Please come prepared with a solid understanding concerning your characters.

Cheers, cute kids! I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday.

Introduction to the monsters, lesser gods and heroes of Mythology

2010-11-02T15:02:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Students,

1. You were.iintroduced to a research assignment regarding the lesser gods and monsters of Mythology.

Note: Each student selected TWO characters that are their research subjects.

Homework:

. 1.Depending on your chosen characters, each student will locate information at home via the Internet. Please DO NOT USE Wikipedia as a source. I would suggest ENCYCLOPEDIA MYTHICA as a stronger option. Some students elected to work with a partner, while others want to work independently. Which ever choice was made, two characters are the focus for the research. PLEASE PRINT OFF the INTERNET sources that you found useful in providing information about your characters. I will look at your Internet sources on WEDNESDAY. In addition, you need to ANNOTATE (using Orange for B1, B4 and Green for B2) information that is important to the mythological hero associated with your characters.

2. Compile a list of the points you found interesting in association with your characters. Please type the list using MLA format.

3. Please include a works cited page indicating your Internet source(s).

Your assignment is due at the beginning of class on Thursday. We will go to the library so that you can extend your research.

Cheers,
Crampton

TEST DAY!

2010-10-28T06:18:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

Please remember that your EXAM will take place on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 28th! When you come to class you should have the following with you:

1. Your completed review (typed or handwritten) If you missed class, the review is available to you on the blog.
2. Your completed flashcard (1 side)
3. Your mind prepared and ready to implement your newly learned knowledge!

I look forward to seeing you on Thursday!

Cheers,
Crampton.

Final Exam Explained...

2010-10-22T11:28:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Students,

If you missed class, we completed the following:

1. I explained the structure of the Final Exam, which will occur on Thursday, October 29th.
I have included a copy of the review below. Please read the instructions!

REVIEW #1

Mythology Exam

I ask that you complete the following review, as doing so will give you insight regarding areas where you need to spend additional time concerning your review. In essence, you can use the review as a pre-test. Answer the questions without using your handouts or book. If you need assistance with certain questions, then you know that those particular questions need greater review. PLEASE USE A SEPARATE SHEET OF PAPER, as you don’t have adequate space for your responses below. You will submit your review prior to the exam on THURSDAY!

You will see 45 different pieces of artwork. Each drawing, painting, sketch, statue, etc. pertains to the areas of mythology we have discussed this term. I will ask you specific questions about each overhead. For example, you may be asked to “identify the myth illustrated” or “identify the god,” or “explain what is taking place in the image, “ etc. The best way to completely prepare for your exam, is to go through each question below, as some aspect will appear on the test.

I ask that you use ONE SIDE of a 3x5 card to assist you with some aspects that you might find difficult to recall. Yes, this is compulsory, my young friends. It’s call “insurance.” You may not need to use the card, but if you do, then it is available to you. IF YOU DO NOT USE THE CARD, then I will add five points of extra-credit to your exam score. If you use the card then no penalty will apply.

One of my goals as your teacher is for you to apply what we have learned in class to the “real world.” So, if you are watching a film, listening to music spending time in a museum, reading a book, etc, and you see/hear references to mythology, you can identify them without hesitation. All of your exams will be application in nature.

Identify the Roman name, symbol(s) and domain(s) for the following Greek gods:

1. Aphrodite 5. Poseidon 9. Zeus 13. Apollo

2 Demeter 6. Hestia 10. Hephaestus 14. Hades

3. Artemis 7. Hermes 11. Athena

4.Ares 8. Dionysus 12. Hera

NOTE: You need to have strong familiarity regarding the parents of each Olympian, and specifics concerning their births. In addition, you must be aware of relationships that the gods have with each other, and the result(s) of these associations. (Example: Poseidon is disrespectful towards Athena because her gift was chosen over his. Consequently, Medusa as we know her is created. (This, of course, is the abbreviated version).

Please respond using complete sentences:
15. Who are the Furies? Describe their roll, “birth,” and appearance.
16. Who are the rulers of the underworld? (Greek and Roman names, please)
(p.s. please be familiar with the Greek underworld, specifically the sinners associated with Tartarus)
17. Identify the areas of the Greek stage.
18. Identify the importance regarding the Greek chorus.

NOTE: for19= 30. you will need to be familiar with ALL the characters within each myth.
19. Plotline for “Pandora’s Box”
20. “Arachne”
21. “Prometheus”
22. “Demeter and Persephone”
23. “Daphne”
24. “Echo and Narcissus” 25. “Orpheus and Eurydice”
26. “Oedipus”
27. “Antigone”
28. “Io and Prometheus”
29. Creation myth (Aphrodite, Crone, Uranus, Rhea,)
30. “Danaids”

2. We reviewed, took and corrected the "HADES" quiz.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please remember that your "Modern Day God" revision is due on Tuesday, October 26th
2. Start working on your review for the final exam

Welcome to Hades!

2010-10-21T11:02:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If I were to ask you to envision Hades, especially now that we have discussed its varying aspects, how would you describe it? This picture is an artist's concept of the entrance to Hades. He clearly DOES NOT know Hades as well as he should. Remember that only a part of Hades was Saturnine, and that of course was Tartarus.

If you missed class on Friday, October 20th, we discussed the Greek underworld of Hades. Each student received an orange handout, which we completed together. I HAVE INCLUDED A COPY OF THE HANDOUT FOR YOU AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST! Several overheads were shared with you in relationship to the areas we discussed. I have attempted to include some of the images for you below.

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read the myth of "Orpheus and Eurydice" located on pg. 107 in your textbook. This myth illustrates how just Hades was concerning those that entered his domain.
2. Please read the myth of the "Danaids" located on pg. 295 in your textbook. This myth pertains to one group of sinners within Hades.
3. You will have a QUIZ covering HADES on Friday, October 22nd

The following pictures should give you greater insights into some of the aspects we discussed on Friday. Please make sure you obtain the information from someone else in class BEFORE you return.

This is the character known as Sisyphus. He was destroyed by Zeus due to his inappropriate sexual behavior. His pushes a boulder up a large mountain in Hades, with the one purpose of pushing it over the top. He is never successful in doing so, as the boulder always comes crashing down on him. This punishment is highly symbolic of the crime, as the rock represents Sisyphus' sexual desires. He hopes to overcome them, but he he is unsuccessful in doing so.

These women are known as the Danaids. There are fifty of them, and on their wedding night, all but one, murdered her husband by stabbing him in his heart. Their punishment in Hades is to obtain water from the River Styx with the hope of filling Hades' garden pond; however, their jars have holes in the bottom. They were never able to complete the mundane task of filling the pond. This is symbolic of the fact that they took the trivial and mundane away from their husbands; consequently, they are forever cursed with it.

This is Ixion. He attempted to rape Hera. Zeus had him strapped to a wheel of burning fire. This is symbolic of the fact that a rapist will continue to rape unless caught...hence the wheel. The fire on either side is symbolic of the pain the victim feels. Ixion was constantly burned, but never burned away. OUCH!

Tantalus is another sinner in Hades. He murdered his nephew, and then fed his flesh to the gods in the form of a stew. The Olympians were so appalled by Tantalus' behavior that they cemented him within Styx, being cursed with perpetual hunger and thirst. Each time he attempted to drink from Styx the water would move away from him. There are fruit trees hanging above his head, and yet each time he attempted to grab some of the fruit it, too, would move away from him. He is perpetually hungry and thirty. Can you recognize that each punishment is symbolic of its crime!

THE GREEK UNDERWORLD (handout given on Friday, Oct. 20th)

1. The rulers of the underworld are _________ and his queen _________.
2. The ferryman is called __________________ and he must receive an _________ in order for the dead to cross the River Styx. The coin is placed under the _________ of the deceased.
3. The three most significant rivers in Hades are:
a. The River ______ is the river of the “unbreakable oaths.”
b. The River ________ is the river of the “forgetfulness.”
c. The river Mnemosyne is the “pool of ____________.”
4. The dog __________ guards the gates, and its most distinctive physical feature is ____________________.
5. When ghosts first arrive in Hades, they are taken to the judges of the dead to be tried according to the deeds during life. They are called __________________, ____________________ and _______________.
6. ________________ is the goddess of justice. She determines if the punishments are fair.
7. There are three areas of the underworld:
a. ____________ where people are sent who ______________________________ ________________________________________________________________
b. _____________ for those who lived ___________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
c. _______________ for those who could not _______________________________ __________________________________________________________________
8. A significant motif of mythological stories is justice: defining what is right and wrong and deciding how sinners should be punished. The Greeks were extremely imaginative in punishing those they considered guilty. There are four individuals who have eternal punishment due to their actions on earth.
a. The Danaids:

b. Sisyphus:

c. Tantalus:

d. Ixion:

9. From the surface of the earth, how does one find the entrance to Hades?

10. The FATES determine the length of one’s life. _________________ weaves the thread; the “disposer of lots,” ____________ gives each man their destiny; the most feared is ____________, as she cuts the thread and your life along with it.

11. The god of sleep, ___________________ and the god of dreams, ______________ belong to the retinue of Hades.
12. _____________ is the Greek goddess of Justice.

PRACTICE QUIZ:
1. Why would an individual drink from the pool of Lethe?
2. Why would an individual drink from the pool of Mnemosyne?
3. Explain the concept regarding "male domination" concerning Elysium.
4. How does one reach Hades?
5. Why is the obolus significant to the Greek underworld?
6. Who "lives" in Tartaurs? Why is the word "live" an oxymoron? (I know that the occupants are dead, but think on a symbolic level0.
7. Who occupies the Asphodel Fields?
8. Identify the sin associated with the Danaids? Identify their punishment.
9. Identify Ixion. Identify his punishment.
10. Identify Sisyphus. Identify his punishment.
11. Identify Tantalus. Identify his punishment.
12. Indicate an example that proves Hades as rhadamanthine.
13. Identify the three judges in the underworld.
14. What is mean by a "cracked character?

I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday. Have a safe weekend!

Cheers,

Crampton

Completion of "Oedipus" and Greek Drama Quiz......

2010-10-18T11:20:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

Welcome back from Fall Break! If you missed class today, Monday, 18th , we completed the following:

1. I returned your "Modern Day God" paper. The revision for this assignment is due on Tuesday, October 26th. The essays were quite clever regarding the connections made to modern individuals; however, most students had problems with supporting their connections. When you return, please visit with me so I can return your essay to you.

2. I gave each student introductory information regarding Hades. Please read the handout and annotate/notate it with 10-12 annotations/notations. I have placed some extra copies of it outside my room; it is light green in color. For those of you that missed class, this terminology will seem strange; consequently, you will need to visit with me prior to class on Wed. The annotation and notation colors are different for each class. If you can't see me prior to Wednesday, then please visit with a friend from YOUR CLASS!

3. Your Nature Myth Part 2 is due on Friday. Please remember that you need a rough draft and TWO COPIES of your First Draft for Friday.

4. We completed your "Oedipus" and "Greek Theater" quiz. If you missed class, then you will need to use some Flex-time to complete the quiz.

DON'T MISS CLASS ON WEDNESDAY, as we begin our discussion on HADES!

FLEX SCHEDULE for October 18-22

Tuesday: Mythology

Wednesday: English

Thursday: Humanities

Friday: Mythology

Cheers,

Crampton

Your Nature Myth is due on Friday, October 22nd

2010-10-12T11:35:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I hope you enjoy your "Fall Break." If you missed class today, we completed the following:

1. Your "Nature Myth" assignment was introduced to you. Your rough draft and first draft are both due on Friday, October 22nd. WORK ON YOUR ASSIGNMENT OVER THE BREAK, as you will be busy with other aspects upon your return. Please see me on Wed., so that I can give you the information for your assignment. I will also include several copies of the explanation outside the door. I'm sorry but I'm having difficulties with including the assignment as as PDF.

2. We then reviewed for the quiz covering "Oedipus," "Antigone," and Greek theater. The "Antigone" portion of your quiz was completed and corrected in class. We then went to the lab, where we began completing the "Oedipus" and Greek drama portions of the quiz. WE DID NOT FINISH IN CLASS, so students saved their responses to their student numbers, and we will continue with the quiz on the Monday that you return.

Take Care,
Crampton

ANTIGONE, the courageous daughter of OEDIPUS, was introduced to you today!

2010-10-08T11:09:00.000-06:00

If you missed class on Friday, October 8th we accomplished the following:

1. I introduced the myth of "ANTIGONE" (pg. 273). MAKE SURE YOU READ THE MYTH! "Antigone" is the companion piece to "Oedipus." It is the myth of what happens to Oedipus after he blinds himself and is banished from Thebes. Antigone is the oldest female child of Oedipus and Jocata. We read the myth in class, and then started reading the play "Anitgone" by Sophocles together. We did not finish reading in class, so make sure you have read the blue copy of the play by Tuesday. YOU WILL HAVE A QUIZ OVER "ANTIGONE" ON TUESDAY. It was originally written as a myth, and then retold as a drama by Sophocles. It is a story about doing what is honorable and just, even when you are the only individual who has the courage to behave with such fortitude. Please make sure you are familiar with the characters of Creon, Haemon, Antigone, Etoecles, Polynieces, and Ismene for your quiz.

2. We viewed a clip from Oedipus performed by the London Shakespeare Company. I shared this with everyone as a review.

3. We then proceeded to read the "Antigone" myth, followed by the dramatic version of the myth.

4. Everyone submitted their plot maps. I can't wait to read them!

HOMEWORK:
1YOUR QUIZ covering "Oedipus," Greek theater and "Antigone" will take place on TUESDAY. PLEASE STUDY for your quiz. Yes, you are welcome to make flashcards.

PART 1 of TUESDAY'S QUIZ:
The literary tool of irony is significant to the plot of "Oedipus." As part of your quiz on Thursday, you will respond to ONE of FOUR quotes. I will ask that you explain the irony of the chosen question in relationship to the plot of Oedipus. Your response must be thorough. Responding with, "This section is ironic because Oedipus does not realize Laius is his father," is not detailed enough. You will need to explain ALL the circumstances behind the quote that you "pull from the bag." You will not be able to use your textbook or notes for the quiz. This is why you must READ YOUR MYTH, my fine young friends! You do have access to the questions, as they are below, and you can consider a strong response for each one.

1. "He left his home, Corinth, where he was held to be the son of the king, Polybus, and the reason for his self exile was another Delphic oracle. Apollo had declared that he was fated to kill his father."

2. "...whoever had murdered King Laius must be punished. Oedipus was relieved. Surely the man or men could be found after all these years, and they should know well how to punish him."

3. He spoke to his people..."Let no one of this land give him shelter. Bar him from your homes, as one defiled, companioned by pollution. And solemnly I pray, may he who killed wear out his life in evil, being evil."
4. "No one suffered more than Oedipus. He regard himself as the father of the whole state; the people in it were his children; the misery of each one was his too."

PART 2 of TUESDAY'S QUIZ:
1. You will be given a list of word associated with Greek theater. Your quiz will require that you explain Greek drama using the list of words that you select. The best way to prepare for this portion of your quiz is to MAKE FLASHCARD!

PRACTICE QUIZ for "ANTIGONE"
Instructions: Please identify the speaker or character referenced by the BOLD text.

1.You consider it right for a man of my years experience to go to school to a boy?
2. His bride in the house of the dead.
3. "You will grant me this..... one wish to bury my body in Thebes. I wish to always be a part of the land I love."
4. Which laws were stronger, those of morality or politics? For her, there was no question."
5. "You can't do that! It would be against the law. I don't have the strength to help you."
6. "Double the watch ! I want to find out who dared disobey me."
7."IT is not right if I am wrong, But if I am young, and right, what does my age matter?"
8. "I beg you, do not be unchangeable."
9. "This last flower of Oedipus' line drank the sunlight! Yet now a passionate word and a handful of dust have closed up all its beauty."
10."Before the sun sets this day, you shall pay twice. Yes, there will be two more corpse in return for one! And their blood will be on your hands."

I will look forward to seeing you on Thursday! Please don't miss class!

GREEK DRAMA for today, October 6th, 2010!

2010-10-06T12:32:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

IF YOU MISSED CLASS TODAY....

If you missed class today, please make sure you read the myth of "Oedipus" located on pages. 268-273 in your textbook. You will have a QUIZ over the myth and Greek drama on Tuesday, October 11th! PLEASE READ THE MYTH! What we do in class on Friday is important concerning your schema regarding "Oedipus." This is a valuable piece of literature, as it was originally written as a narrative, and then transformed to a play by Sophocles. It also contains the literary element of IRONY, which adds to the plot line.

This image depicts a theater troupe performing "Oedipus Rex. " Oedipus is in the middle, and the Greek chorus is surrounding him.

We reviewed the three different types of IRONY today in class.
1. Dramatic Irony: This occurs when the audience is aware of specific information that characters are not.
2. Irony of Situation or Situational Irony: This occurs when the outcome of a literary work turns out differently than what the audience originally anticipated.
3. Verbal Irony: This occurs when a characters means the opposite of what they say.

We completed your handout regarding Greek Theater. Please visit with someone in class.

Ancient Greek theater mask. The Greeks used masks to help indicated emotion and the type of drama being performed. This image depicts a TRAGIC mask.

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read "Oedipus" on pages 268-272
2. PLOT MAP is due on Friday.
3. Your quiz on Greek Theater will take place on Tuesday, October 12th.

GREEK DRAMA was introduced to you today, oh, and the THRONES were submitted!

2010-10-04T15:35:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I think your THRONES are so clever and I look forward to interviewing you about your design choices. Please note that I will "INVITE" you to FLEX over the next two weeks in order to discuss and review your thrones.

.

I introduced the myth of "Oedipus" to you today (Monday, October 4th) as a catalyst for understanding Greek Drama. I have included some additional images below from those I shared with you class. This myth is extremely significant, as it illustrates the ancient Greeks desire and ability to take their myths and transfer them to the genre of drama.

1. You were introduced to TWO VOCABULARY WORDS: Saturnine and Hermetically
Please visit with someone in class regarding the definition and etymology for each word.

2. We started our discussion regarding GREEK DRAMA. You can obtain a copy of the handout when you return to class.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read the myth entited "Dionysus and Semele." Please obtain a copy when you return to class.
2. The plot map for your myth is due on Friday, October 8th.

If I were to ask you to envision Hades, especially now that we have discussed its varying aspects, how would you describe it? This picture is an artist's concept of the entrance to Hades. He clearly DOES NOT know Hades as well as he should. Remember that only a part of Hades was Saturnine, and that of course was Tartarus.

Dear Mythology Students,

If you missed class on Friday, October 30th, we discussed the Greek underworld of Hades. Each student received a grey handout, which we completed together. I HAVE INCLUDED A COPY OF THE HANDOUT FOR YOU AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST! Several overheads were shared with you in relationship to the areas we discussed. I have attempted to include some of the images for you below.

HOMEWORK:

1. Please read the myth of "Orpheus and Eurydice" located on pg. 107 in your textbook. This myth illustrates how just Hades was concerning those that entered his domain.

2. Please read the myth of the "Danaids" located on pg. 295 in your textbook. This myth pertains to one group of sinners within Hades.

3. Please read "Tantalus" pg. 348-the top paragraph on 349

4. You will have a QUIZ covering the myth of "Orpheus and Eurydice" on Tuesday, Nov. 3rd.

5. You will have a QUIZ covering HADES on Thursday, Nov. 5th

The following pictures should give you greater insights into some of the aspects we discussed on Friday. Please make sure you obtain the information from someone else in class BEFORE you return.

This is the character known as Sisyphus. He was destroyed by Zeus due to his inappropriate sexual behavior. His pushes a boulder up a large mountain in Hades, with the one purpose of pushing it over the top. He is never successful in doing so, as the boulder always comes crashing down on him. This punishment is highly symbolic of the crime, as the rock represents Sisyphus' sexual desires. He hopes to overcome them, but he he is unsuccessful in doing so.

These women are known as the Danaids. There are fifty of them, and on their wedding night, all but one, murdered her husband by stabbing him in his heart. Their punishment in Hades is to obtain water from the River Styx with the hope of filling Hades' garden pond; however, their jars have holes in the bottom. They were never able to complete the mundane task of filling the pond. This is symbolic of the fact that they took the trivial and mundane away from their husbands; consequently, they are forever cursed with it.

This is Ixion. He attempted to rape Hera. Zeus had him strapped to a wheel of burning fire. This is symbolic of the fact that a rapist will continue to rape unless caught...hence the wheel. The fire on either side is symbolic of the pain the victim feels. Ixion was constantly burned, but never burned away. OUCH!

Tantalus is another sinner in Hades. He murdered his nephew, and then fed his flesh to the gods in the form of a stew. The Olympians were so appalled by Tantalus' behavior that they cemented him within Styx, being cursed with perpetual hunger and thirst. Each time he attempted to drink from Styx the water would move away from him. There are fruit trees hanging above his head, and yet each time he attempted to grab some of the fruit it, too, would move away from him. He is perpetually hungry and thirty.

Can you recognize that each punishment is symbolic of its crime!

THE GREEK UNDERWORLD (handout given on Friday, Oct. 30th)

1. The rulers of the underworld are _________ and his queen _________.

2. The ferryman is called __________________ and he must receive an _________ in order for the dead to cross the River Styx. The coin is placed under the _________ of the deceased.

3. The three most significant rivers in Hades are:

a. The River ______ is the river of the “unbreakable oaths.”

b. The River ________ is the river of the “forgetfulness.”

c. The river Mnemosyne is the “pool of ____________.”

4. The dog __________ guards the gates, and its most distinctive physical feature is ____________________.

5. When ghosts first arrive in Hades, they are taken to the judges of the dead to be tried according to the deeds during life. They are called __________________, ____________________ and _______________.

6. ________________ is the goddess of justice. She determines if the punishments are fair.

7. There are three areas of the underworld:

a. ____________ where people are sent who ______________________________ ________________________________________________________________

b. _____________ for those who lived ___________________________________ _________________________________________________________________

c. _______________ for those who could not _______________________________ __________________________________________________________________

8. A significant motif of mythological stories is justice: defining what is right and wrong and deciding how sinners should be punished. The Greeks were extremely imaginative in punishing those they considered guilty. There are four individuals who have eternal punishment due to their actions on earth.

a. The Danaids:

b. Sisyphus:

c. Tantalus:

d. Ixion:

9. From the surface of the earth, how does one find the entrance to Hades?

10. The FATES determine the length of one’s life. _________________ weaves the thread; the “disposer of lots,” ____________ gives each man their destiny; the most feared is ____________, as she cuts the thread and your life along with it.

11. The god of sleep, ___________________ and the god of dreams, ______________ belong to the retinue of Hades.

I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday. Have a safe weekend!

Cheers,

Crampton

Posted by Crampton at 11:35 AM

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Exam #1

Dear Mythology Kids,

I am so proud of you! I have reviewed your exams and you did SO WELL! As I mentioned on Wednesday, look what you know now that you did not know before!

For those of you that missed the exam, I will hold a "make-up" session on Tuesday during lunch and after school! IT IS COMPULSORY that you attend if you missed the exam. This is the best time for me to administer the exam again!

We begin with the "Greek Underworld" on Friday; I look foward to seeing you then.

Cheers,

Crampton

Posted by Crampton at 8:17 PM

Thursday, October 22, 2009

7 a.m. REVIEW SESSION....Monday, October 26th

Don't forget to attend the 7 a.m. review session on Monday, October 26th. If I'm the only individual in my room on Monday at 7 a.m., then "HELL HATH NO FURY LIKE KORI CRAMPTON SCORNED!" Ha

"Luck favors the mind that is prepared."

Hello, Mythology Students,

The above quote is by Louis Pasteur. If you aren't familiar with Pasteur he was the French scientist credited with identifying the science of Microbiology. He also discovered a cure for Rabies. He clearly was a clever gentleman, and I would agree that his quote has merit!

"LUCK FAVORS THE MIND THAT IS PREPARED!"

-Louis Pasteur-

Are you PREPARING for your exam? I hope that you have made the choice to complete your review and now you are looking at the example questions that I have included on the blog. If so I am proud of you. I have no doubt that you will you succeed on the test. Good luck on the following set of images.

Cheers,Crampton

1. What is being depicted in this ancient sketch. You should mention the male

and female by name.

2. Identify this lovely lady. The fruit she is holding is a strong clue as to her identity.

3. What is taking place in this sketch. In your response, you will need to identify the female character.

4. Who is this Greek god (Greek and Roman names, please).

5. I LOVE THIS PAINTING, because I feel the artist truly captures the emotion behind this myth. Identify the three individuals in this image; two are female, one is a male. Notice that the male is carrying one of the females, and that the other female has her arms stretched out, as if she is anxiously anticipating the second female's return.

6. Identify this Greek god (Greek and Roman names, please).

7. Who is this character? Please include both Greek and Roman names. What were his domains?

8. Identify the human character in this sketch (Greek and Roman names, please).

9. Who is this Greek god? In addition, explain the myth concerning the symbol depicted behind her.

10. What is this? Identify the characters associated with this symbol and in what capacity. How is this ancient symbol relevant to people living in the 21st century?

I will look forward to seeing you on MONDAY (at 7 a.m.)!

Best Wishes,

Crampton

11. Identify this character. Explain why he is in this unfortunate circumstance.

12. Identify this god (Greek and Roman names, please.)

13. Don't you think this is a fabulous stamp! You are familiar with the character on the right of the stamp; please identify him. The other character's name is Marsays, and we have not yet extensively discussed him.

14. Identify this character, and then explain her story. You should mention two gods in your response, one is a male the other female.

15. Please explain the creation of the horse. This horse does not have wings. You should mention two gods in your response.

MORE TO COME.........

I am happy to give you extra-credit if you choose to "take on" the role of a Greek character we have studied as your Halloween persona. Take a picture, and then send me a copy of it; it's that simple. If you need some ideas, please feel free to ask me....happy creating!

This is your third section of images.

16.Identify this Greek character.

17.Explain what has just taken place in the above sculpture. You should mention two characters by name (use Greek and Roman).

18. Identify the primary Greek/Roman Character in the above sculpture.

19. This would not have been a pleasant experience for the women in the painting. Who are these two individuals? Why is this event taking place? In your response you should mention a female character that is not present.

20. Who is this character?

I will post another set of images on Monday!

Enjoy your weekend.

Crampton

Posted by Crampton at 11:35 AM

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Practive Time....

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class today (Tuesday, October 20th) , we accomplished the following:

1. If you submitted your nature myth last week, then you were given another paper to edit for MONDAY, OCTOBER 26th. Each paper was accompanied by a rubic; the rubic indicates questions that you will answer concerning the myth you were asked to edit. Not only are you required to answer the questions on the rubric, but you must also give comments and suggestions on the actual myth.

2. We reviewed some problems with punctuation dialogue. I gave each student the following example, and then asked them to correct it!

“Cruel unkind world, where have you hidden my child?”

Her voice echoed up into Mount Olympus and into the ears of Helius, God of the Sun. He had watched Demeter for the past few days and decided that it was time to relieve the goddess of her suffering.

“Dearest Demeter, I have watched your anguish for days, and I can see your grief. Your brother, Zeus, has made an agreement with Hades that Persephone may be his companion. She has been taken to his kingdom. If you should blame anyone, lay your blame on him.” Demeter stared at the Sun in silence before her anger erupted.

“How dare he! Trade our daughter over to Hades without my permission!” she quietly thanked Helius before going back to Earth. “He didn’t wish to share the news of his trade, then I won’t share the news of the Earth’s infertility.”

Corrected Example:

“Cruel unkind world, where have you hidden my child?”

Her voice echoed up into Mount Olympus and into the ears of Helius, God of the Sun. He had watched Demeter for the past few days and decided that it was time to relieve the goddess of her suffering. “Dearest Demeter, I have watched your anguish for days, and I can see your grief. Your brother, Zeus, has made an agreement with Hades that Persephone may be his companion. She has been taken to his kingdom. If you should blame anyone, lay your blame on him.”

Demeter stared at the Sun in silence before her anger erupted. “How dare he trade our daughter over to Hades without my permission!”

She quietly thanked Helius before going back to Earth. “He didn’t wish to share the news of his trade, then I won’t share the news of the Earth’s infertility.”

Remember that the introductory text needs to be included with the dialogue.

3. We also discussed the difference between "showing" and "telling" in writing. I can give you the handout on this when you return.

4. WE PRACTICED OUR NATURE MYTHS. The performance is scheduled for Monday, October 26th.

I look forward to seeing you on Thursday!

Cheers,

KCrampton

Posted by Crampton at 11:57 AM

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

YOUR NATURE MYTHS WERE DUE TODAY...WEDNEDAY, OCTOBER 14th

It is now your turn to be on a "Greek" stage!

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you were not in class today, then you have a problem! Your myth and rough draft were both due today! You have ONE OPTION:

1. Submit the rough draft and two copies of your myth on MONDAY WITH YOUR HOMEWORK COUPON! I will not accept your myth without the coupon, as your assignment was due during class. Yes, I know that Monday is an A day, but I need your myth in order for you to complete the next assignment associated with your Nature Myth. This new assignment will be explained and given on Tuesday! I NEED YOUR MYTH PRIOR TO TUESDAY!

WHAT DID WE DO IN CLASS TODAY?

1. New vocabulary word: MERCURIAL=Quick to change (often used to describe personality); etymology refers to Mercury (Hermes) who is recognized for his hyperactive nature; synonyms: inconstant, variable, volatile, moody

2. Completed "Antigone" Quiz/ Please prepare to take this quiz upon your return

NATURE MYTH Part 3 Explained

As you know, Sophocles was the greatest of Greek tragedians. He was recognized by the people of Athens as a "master," and Homer even referred to him as the "greatest man." Both accolades make sense because he was able to affect people with his choice of words.

In essence you have been asked to do the same for your nature myth performances. I realize that we may not weep, but more likely laugh when we see you present your myths, but the concept of taking a myth and developing it into a form of drama is a valuable experience for you. Remember that this was one of the ways that the ancient Greeks shared their myths with others.

Upon completion of the "Antigone" quiz, "Nature Myth Part 3" was introduced to you. Each student is working in a group, and each group has selected a nature myth from a member in that group, to perform as their nature myth. I have listed the groups below, so that you are aware of the individuals you will be working with on Tuesday, the 20th and Thursday, the 22th. Remember that your performances will take place on Monday, the 26th.

Please bring a flat sheet (yes, as in bed sheet) to class on Tuesday. Twin sheets are not large enough for any stature.

B1

GROUP #1

•Tiffany, Chris, Rachel, Suzie, Tyler W., Tanner, Tori

GROUP #3

•Melissa, Sierra, Kalee, Colten (daisy), Michelle, Kim, Nichole

Group #4

•Samantha, Tyler A., Braden Lillie, Jonny, Andrew, Kynia

Group #5

•Rebekah, Hannah, Hyrum, Ceri, Celeste, Jake

Group #6

•Mandy, Kacee, Lisa, Braden Lanham, Aushel, Alysha

B2

Group #1

•Shae, Victor, Spencer, Morgan, Lexin, Jordan W.

Group #3

•Carson, Jenni, Daniel, Cody, Lillie, Beatriz, Kaitlyn

Group #4

•Laura, Olivia, Kirsten, Cody, Jeff, Cortney

Group #5

•Richie, Karlie, Tanner, Derek, Bradyn, Carrie

Group #6

•Chelsea, Devin, Brittany, Eric, Casey, Jordan G., Kristen

B4

Group #1 Camlyn, Andy, Megan, Brittany, Kelly, Ashley, Shelby.

Group #2 Cody, Katie M., Miranda, Jen, Amy, Sheree.

Group #3 Vienne, Brooke, Jeff, Kendra, Tyson A., Natalie Batty.

Group #4 Disloved and Abolished

Group #5 Carmen, Janae, Elisa, Emily, Jori, Natalie Border.

Group #6 Eric, Jacob, Thad, Katie, Taylor, Allen, Alyssa.

Posted by Crampton at 11:39 AM

Monday, October 12, 2009

YOUR NATURE MYTH IS DUE ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14th, 2009

Greek Drama.....Your turn is quickly approaching!

Dear Mythology Students,

1. We took a quiz covering the information that we discussed last week regarding the fundamentals of Greek drama. If you missed class, please be prepared to take this quiz upon your return.

2. We then read a portion of "Antigone" by Sophocles.

3. Remember that you will have a quiz covering "Antigone" on Wednesday. If you missed class, then I would read the myth in your textbook. It is located on page 273. Please be familiar with the characters of Antigone, Ismene, Polyneices, Etocles, Creon and Haimon

4. Please DON'T MISS CLASS on WEDNESDAY, as your Nature Myth is due!

PRACTICE QUIZ for "ANTIGONE"

Instructions: Please identify the speaker or character referenced by the BOLD text.

1.You consider it right for a man of my years experience to go to school to a boy?

2. His bride in the house of the dead.

3. "You will grant me this..... one wish to bury my body in Thebes. I wish to always be a part of the land I love."

4. Which laws were stronger, those of morality or politics? For her, there was no question."

5. "You can't do that! It would be against the law. I don't have the strength to help you."

6. "Double the watch ! I want to find out who dared disobey me."

7."IT is not right if I am wrong, But if I am young, and right, what does my age matter?"

8. "I beg you, do not be unchangeable."

9. "This last flower of Oedipus' line drank the sunlight! Yet now a passionate word and a handful of dust have closed up all its beauty."

10."Before the sun sets this day, you shall pay twice. Yes, there will be two more corpse in return for one! And their blood will be on your hands."

Cheers,

Crampton

I look forward to seeing you soon!

Posted by Crampton at 3:09 PM

Sunday, October 11, 2009

YOUR NATURE MYTH IS DUE ON WEDESDAY, OCTOBER 14th, 2009

If you missed class on Thursday, October 8th we accomplished the following:

1. We completed our discussion of Greek drama. YOU WILL HAVE A QUIZ COVERING THIS INFORMATION ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 12th. The best way to prepare for the quiz is to familiarize yourself with the information on your handout. For your quiz you will be given 10 words associated with Greek drama. You will then need to explain Greek drama using those words in a well constructed paragraph.

2. I introduced the myth of "ANTIGONE" (pg. 273) on Thursday. "Antigone" is the companion piece to "Oedipus." It is the myth of what happens to Oedipus after he blinds himself and is banished from Thebes. Antigone is the oldest female child of Oedipus and Jocata. I gave each student a copy of the myth to read as homework. I also requested that they read the myth found within their text. YOU WILL HAVE A QUIZ OVER "ANTIGONE" ON WEDNESDAY. It was originally written as a myth, and then retold as a drama by Sophocles. We will read a section of the drama in class on Monday. It is a story about doing what is honorable and just, even when you are the only individual who has the courage to behave with such fortitude.

3. Please remember that your Nature Myth is due on Wednesday, October 14th. You must bring your rough draft to class on the due date; it should be corrected and include a signature. In addition, please remember to bring TWO COPIES of your FIRST DRAFT (the corrected rough draft) to class on WEDNESDAY.

Posted by Crampton at 3:46 PM

Monday, October 5, 2009

The Oedipus Complex...Yikes!

Dear Mythology Kids,
I introduced the myth of "Oedipus" to you today (Tuesday, October 6th) as a catalyst for understanding Greek Drama. I have included some additional images below from those I shared with you class. This myth is extremely significant, as it illustrates the ancient Greeks desire and ability to take their myths and transfer them to the genre of drama.

Oedipus in his quest to solve the "riddle of the sphinx."

Oedipus with his two daughters, Ismene and Antigone.

We started out dicussion on Greek drama today.

Quiz, "Melody Time," and "Why Birds Molt".......

2010-09-30T12:50:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

We completed the following:

1. Submitted our "take-home" quizzes.
2. Took the quiz covering the following nature myths: "Daphne," "Narcissus," "Prometheus and Io," and "Arachne"
3. We then completed Journal #2 entitled "Melody Time." Students watched a cartoon regarding the legendary character Pecos Bill and then identify several nature myth aspects found within the clip.
4. We then reviewed a strong example of a nature myth...."Why birds molt!"

HOMEWORK:
1. Your throne is due on Monday.
2. Nature Myth Part 1 is also due on Monday!

Cheers,
Crampton

QUIZ covering the Nature Myths on Thursday!

2010-09-29T15:27:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

If you missed class on Tuesday, September 28th, we completed the following:

1. Nature Part 1 was introduced to the students. In essence, I am asking you to start thinking about your own nature myth; consequently, you need to create your own god. Please see me so I can give you a copy of Nature Myth part 1
2. We read another nature myth entitled "Prometheus and Io" (pgs. 78-81). Please read the myth for your quiz on Thursday.
3. Everyone submitted
4. THRONE is due on Monday!
5. Nature Myth Part 1 is also due on Monday!

HOMEWORK:
1. Take-home quiz is due on Thursday.
2. In-class quiz covering "Daphne," "Arachne," "Narcissus" and "Prometheus and Io"
3. Start considering the points surround "Nature Myth Part 1"
4. THRONE IS DUE ON MONDAY!

Cheers,
Crampton

It's only "natural"....... We read and discussed several nature myths today!

2010-09-23T12:14:00.002-06:00

Dearest Mythology Students,

I'm sorry that you missed class! If you are ill, please take care of yourself, if you decided to "avoid" class, then YOU ARE GOING TO HADES WITHOUT AN OBOLUS! SHAME ON YOU, my young friends!

We completed the following:
1. Journal #1 entitle "Hope"
Please consider the following quote by Freidrich Nietzsche. "Hope is the worst of all evils, because it prolongs the torment of man." "Talk" to me about this. Do you agree or disagree with Nietzsche? Explain why? Possibly you see his point of view, but you also view "hope" as a positive entity, as well. Please support your opinion with a personal example.

2. We read several nature myths in class...."Narcissus," "Arachne," "Daphne" (found in your book on page 119), and "Clytie" (page 305 in book). If you missed class, please read these myths. "Narcissus" and "Arachne" can both be found in your textbook, so even though you did not receive the versions I gave to everyone in class, you may use your text as a "back up" for those myths.

3. We had a "guest" come to class. I hope you enjoyed learning more about "Rosie."

. FOR HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Demeter and Persephone" ( I gave everyone a copy of this myth). It won't work as a PDF, so I have left several copies outside my room on the bulletin board.
2. Please read "Demeter" (located on pgs. 50-55) in your book.
Note: Both #1 and #2 are the same myth; yet, they have some distinct differences
3. QUIZ on TUESDAY covering "Prometheus," "Pandora," and "Demeter and Persephone." Your quiz is a "take-home" quiz. Make sure you have your myths to exchange for the quiz.
4. Remember your "Modern Day God" assignment is due on TUESDAY!
5. Remember your Throne Assignment is due on October 4th.

Enjoy your weekend; I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday!
Cheers,
Crampton

If you missed class on Monday, September 20th....SHAME! SHAME! SHAME!

2010-09-19T22:05:00.001-06:00

Dear Mythology Kids,

I miss you so much when you are not in class. Please work on always attending, unless of course, you are incredibly ill...then stay home!

1. Presented information on the following gods. Please obtain the information from someone else in class.

Hephaestus
Artemis
Apollo
Hermes
Aphrodite and Ares

2. Please make sure you obtain the information that was presented in class, as your QUIZ on Wednesday will pertain to more detailed information concerning the gods.

3. Students were given a new assignment entitled "Modern Day God" assignment. Please visit with me about this if you have questions. The due date is Tuesday, September 28th.
Instructions for "Modern Day God" Assignment:

1.Through our class discussions, each student should have a greater understanding concerning the Olympians. Please select ONE Olympian and connect him/her to an individual from past or present society. The god you select does not need to be the same one you research regarding your “Handout” assignment.
2.All of the god's attributes do not need to be obvious in relationship to the individual chosen for connection; however, you must be able to relate at least one (obviously) attribute that both possess. Please go beyond the obvious, by focusing on intrinsic characters rather than appearance.
3.In order to obtain enough information regarding your chosen connection, you will need to complete some research. Please note the citation examples below concerning a book or Internet source.

BOOK: Carter, Joseph. The Life of Mark Twain. Scott Foreman, Pub., New York, NY.

                        1989.

INTERNET: William, Jacob. “Mark Twain.” The Mark Twain No One Knew. August

                             17th, 2001. September 11, 2008.

                            http://coned.ceu.edu/authors/19thcentury.org

4.Please begin your response by indicating the connection between the god and your chosen individual (Introduction). Your next paragraph needs to indicate aspects concerning the god (Body Paragraph #1). The third paragraph will focus on the individual chosen for comparison (Body Paragraph #2). Finally, your fourth paragraph will justify why you elected to compare the two characters (Conclusion)

5.Please use ACADEMIC VOICE for your response.
6.MLA Format regarding structure and citations also needs to be used. Double space your response, using Times New Roman print, and 12 point font.
7. Please incorporate an image of your “modern day” comparison in your paper.

May the power of Athena and Hephaestus be with you, my young friends!

Let me know if you need any assistance.

Instructions: Please select the god that BEST fits each description. You will need to identify the character with both Greek and Roman names. For some questions you will need to justify your response. Some gods may be used more than once.

1. Venerate, Vigil, Valuable, Vigilante, Volume, Viscous...I love words that begin with the letter V. ______________/______________ (both Greek and Roman names)
2. I would make an excellent "shop" teacher. ______________/___________
3. I have a PhD in Statistics. __________/______________
4. I am "President Obama" of the Olympians. _____________/____________
5. I directed a documentary film on master thieves. ___________/____________
6. I would do well working in a floral shop, as the buds would always bloom.

_____________/_______________
7. War of the Worlds is my favorite film. ____________/___________
8. I always "hit my mark." __________/_____________
9. I am responsible for desecrating a temple. ____________/_____________
10. Justify your response for #9 ____________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________
11. A trick was played to woo me, so "love can not live where there is no trust." ______/_____
12. Justify your response for #11. ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________
13. I failed to ask my wife's mother for her hand in "marriage." _________/_________
14. "Make me the most beautiful land animal." __________/____________

Good luck with the practice quiz.
I will see you on Wednesday!

Cheers, Crampton

PRACTICE QUIZ

If you missed class on Tuesday, September 14th....

2010-09-15T21:03:00.000-06:00

Dear Mythology Students,

If you missed class on Tuesday, September 14th we did the following:

1. Took practice quiz covering the 13 Olympians
2. Took actual quiz covering the 13 Olympians
3. Corrected quiz
4. Started obtaining additional information on all the gods. We completed Zeus, Hera and Athena. When you return to class, you will need to obtain the GREEN handout which is where we are recording the additional information about the gods. The following information was discussed for each:

Zeus

controls all aspects of the weather
tricks Hera into marrying him by transforming into a cuckoo bird
Hera is his second wife
Metis is his first wife (she is the mother to Athena)
shapeshifts into animals in order to woe women
has numerous affairs
Just
has difficulties in making decisions
god of athletes/athletic events were held in his honor

Hera

Zeus transforms into a cuckoo bird. Hera loves animals, and finds a "cuckoo bird" outside her window trapped in a storm. She brings the bird to her breast and states, "I will love you forever, cuckoo bird, and I swear by the River Styx that I will honor this vow." At this point, Zeus returned to his true form, raped Hera, and told her that she had to honor her vow by marrying him. If you swore by Styx your oath could not be broken.
She loves animals.
Hephaestus is her son without a father (in some versions) Hera was angry that Zeus had given birth to Athena without the assistance of a mother, so she gave birth to Hephaestus without a father. He was born ugly and unshapen, so she cast him off Mt. Olympus.
Due to Zeus' affairs, Hera takes her anger and frustrations out on Zeus' lovers and children.
Hera renews her virginity every year by bathing in the River Evenes.Athena
Zeus swallowed Athena's mother, Metis, because an oracle had informed Zeus that if Metis birthed a son that child would overthrow his father. Zeus felt that he could not risk this, so he swallowed Metis. Athena grew within her father, until one day he experience a terrible headache. Hephaestus, the God of Inventions, sliced open Zeus' head and Athena was born wearing full battle armour and holding a shield and spear.
Athena values mankind. She taught them how to create tools, use numbers, create nets, weaving and ships.
Athena expected mankind to give gratitude to the gods of Olympus. If they were disrespectful, she punished them. She turns a mortal woman names Arachne into a spider because she failed to thank Athena for her gift. In addition, she said that she was a better weaver than Athena.
Athena and Poseidon both wanted Attica as their city-state. The people decided they would select their patron god based upon a gift they offered the people. Athena gave the people an Olive Tree, and Poseidon gave the people a spring of salt water. The people selected Athena as their patron deity; consequently, Poseidon detested Athena.

I look forward to seeing you on Thursday.
Cheers,
Crampton
Posted by Crampton at 3:29 PM