Friday, September 18th

Dear Mythology Kids,

I hope you have a wonderful weekend. If you are going to Homecoming, remember to tell your date that she/he is JUNOESQUE or APPOLONIAN!

If you missed class, we completed the following:
1. Each student took the test covering the Greek Pantheon. PLEASE communicate with me if you missed this assessment.
2. We started obtaining additional information about Zeus and Hera. I have included the information that we discussed in class below. PLEASE copy and paste this information to the YELLOW HANDOUT located in your NOTE section that has images of all the gods on it.

Cheers,
Crampton


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
• Punishes Prometheus for creating mankind

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.

 

Thursday, September 10th, 2015

Dear Mythology Kids,

Enjoy your weekend! 

STOP MISSING CLASS, cute kids! If you miss,  then please return to class knowing what you missed! Communicate with me, check out the blog, or visit with a friend from class. YOU NEED TO BE PRO-ACTIVE, and if you need help, then please don't hesitate to ask! Remember that this is YOUR education!

1. We went to the library where everyone located a source for the handout assignment via the internet. REMEMBER THAT YOU NEED TWO SOURCES, the one I gave you in class, and the one you located today in the lab. BOTH NEED TO BE ANNOTATED FOR MONDAY!

2. We then took a practice quiz to help acclimate you for the official test over the Greek Pantheon, which will take place on Wednesday. Please come in to visit with me about the journal entry, so I can explain it to you.

3. We then completed obtaining all the information covering the Greek Pantheon.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read pages 24-36 in your book. Identify 3-5 points of interest for each god. Those of you that have your own book, should annotate within the book, and those of you that don't, then use a separate sheet of notebook paper.  This is due on Monday!
2. Remember that your handout is due on MONDAY! Please read through the entire assignment, so you are clear on ALL OF THE REQUIREMENTS. You need to make sure that the sources you use for information are annotated/notated.
3. You will have a TEST covering the GREEK PANTHEON on WEDNESDAY! I have included the practice test for you below. I would use a seperate sheet of paper.

PRACTICE TEST for GREEK PANTHEON

PRACTICE TEST 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..... REMEMBER THAT YOU SHOULD NOT USE YOUR NOTES for this assessment! USE THIS AS A PRE-TEST!



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 each response.

1.

2.

3..

4.

5.

6.

.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

Posted by Mrs. Crampton at 6:37 PM

Welcome Back from Labor Day! 09/08/2015

Dear Mythology Kids,
If you missed class, please stop by and visit with me! You have a significant assignment due on THURSDAY that involves obtaining some informational text from me.

1. EVERYONE RECEIVED A BOOK!
2. We completed grading your "QUESTs!"
3. We started working on the Olympians in relationship to identifying them by Greek/Roman names, Symbols and Domains! We will continue to work on this Thursday! Please communicate with someone in class, so that you have the information that you missed.

NOTE: Each student was assigned a specific god, and then given reading material that offered reliable information about that god. If you missed class, please come see me.

HOMEWORK!
1. Each student received information from me, that they in turn, were asked to read and underline points that they found interesting for Thursday!
2. Your "Handout Assignment" is due on Monday!

Tuesday, September 1st, 2015

Dear Mythology Kids,
1. We completed the Creation myth associated with the Greeks. It is the most significant story, as it explains how the gods came into existence. Please make sure you communicate with someone that you know who is taking Mythology.

2. Even if you missed class, I still expect you to be prepared for class on Thursday Please communicate with someone else in class! Go to the Internet and look up "Greek Creation Myth," in order to obtain assistance!

HOMEWORK:
1. Prepare for your quiz covering the "history lesson" (map), "tell me a story," and the flow chart illustrating the Creation myth.
2. Please read "Rule of Uranus" and "Rule of Cronus" for Thursday

3. Create flashcards (if you complete them, then you can use a 1/4 on the "quest")

4. Complete the practice quiz (for each question that you answer correctly, you receive 1/2 of point of credit added to the actual quiz score)

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. Homer
• 5. Aesthetic myth/Explanatory myth
• 6. Mythology and why?
• 7. Gaea
• 8. Uranus
• 9. Nyx
• 10. Erebus
• 11. Eros
• 12. Pontus
• 13. Aphrodite
• 14. Furies
• 15. Cyclopes
• 16.100 handed ones
• 17. Titans
• 18. Atlas/
• 19.Prometheus/
• 20. 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 Thursday., 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 on Wed.. We will review for the quiz by discussing the questions on the practice quiz. If you choose to use flashcards on the quiz , you can use a 1/4 of the ones that you complete. DON'T FORGET to review the information concerning your "history lesson." 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? Explain their symbolism.

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

15. Refer to the fourth image...... Explain the symbolism behind the death of the character lying on his back.

16. Who is this? Explain her "birth" and its symbolic meaning?

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

Cheers,

Crampton

Friday, Auguast 28th, 2015

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

1. We discussed the value in studying Mythology. Make sure you communicate with someone in class so that you can obtain the response that each of us received.

2. We then continued with our introduction to "The Creation Myth. "We did not finish this in class, but we will on Tuesday. If you missed class, PLEASE make sure you communicate with a friend, as the myth is extremely symbolic and highly convoluted. Have your chosen friend EXPLAIN it to you., don't just take their flow chart and copy it.

HOMEWORK:
1. You will have a "QUEST" covering all the information we have discussed up to this point on THURSDAY.! Start reviewing now, guys !
2. Create flashcards for characters associated with the Creation Myth, and any other aspects that you believe you might have a hard time remembering. You are welcome to use a 1/4 of the number of the cards your create. So, if you make 20 cards, you can use 5 cards. Make sense?

Wednesday, August 26th, 2015

Dear Mythology Kids,
If you missed class, I hope to see you on Friday! Do your best to make it back, but stay home and rest if you are feeling ill. We did cover a significant amount today. Please visit with a friend from class.

HOMEWORK:
1. Please read "Why are the Greek myths still relevant today?," included below, and include 7-10 annotations on each page. If you were not in class, then copy this to a Word document and then print it off. Please place it in the "Vocab/Mechanics section of your notebook.
NOTE:  You were introduced to the color coding regarding your annotating and notating. Each type of notation correlates to a specific color. Please see the color key below.
PLEASE READ THE ARTICLE BELOW and ANNOTATE/NOTATE it for FRIDAY! Stop by and visit me if you have any questions.
 

• If you  find a section of text confusing then you would underline it using BROWN.
• If you are able to make a connection to 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. 
• 
  
• 
  
• Why Classical Myths are still relevant Today
  If there is one subject that is still widely taught today, it has to be the subject of Classical mythology. It isn’t just taught as part of a literature curriculum at school but is also part of most history lessons. Some people might wonder why the world is still so hung up on these myths when they are nothing but stories and they came from thousands of years ago. However, one look at the vast amount of ancient Greek-themed movies and literature today, people will quickly come to the conclusion that the world is still fascinated with Classical Mythology though they might not always be able to say why.
  For those who think that ancient Greek mythology stories are nothing more than a bunch of outdated tales, they just happen to be wrong. For sure, these stories may have been written hundreds if not thousands of years ago, but it is good to remember they were written by wise men who had a hand in helping shape modern thinking. These great men, Aristotle and Sophocles to name a few, were not mere story-tellers; they didn’t spend their days weaving tales just because they wanted to and had nothing to do. They were too good for that and this is why their Greek myths have withstood the test of time and are relevant until today. In fact, they might even still be relevant a hundred years from now.
  
  What are Greek Myths?
  To some people, Greek myths are these epic tales of gods and goddesses gallivanting about the earth, achieving all sorts of impossible tasks. They are stories of people dealing with the gods and either they come out triumphant or they end up bloody and charred or turned into animals and plants. Indeed, a person who doesn’t look beyond the surface will think these tales are nothing more than flights of fancy by old story-tellers from the past but a deeper look at the stories will tell you more than that. These myths aren’t just legends and while they are “just stories” they are stories with a purpose and reason. A deeper look at Greek myths should reveal morals, philosophies, and even warnings.
  
  
  These tales rarely have the happily-ever-after endings people are so used to these days but remember, they weren’t written for entertainment—they were written with a higher purpose. One wouldn’t expect such great minds to waste their time telling a story for the sake of telling a story; they had to have purpose and they had to impart knowledge. In truth, these myths give people a chance to glimpse at the way the Greeks lived and how they thought back then. It might seem hopelessly outdated and unimportant but the exact opposite of that is true.
  
  What is the Importance of the Greeks?
  Most people will not really notice it unless they are told to do so, but there are so many Greek influences around the world today. In fact, it is impossible to go around to completely understand the basics of things like fine arts, literature, and performing arts without touching on some Greek myth.
  These myths were an integral part of ancient Greek culture because this was how they passed down lessons from one generation to the next without things getting boring and dull. Anyone who has ever picked up a book on Greek myths or seen a movie inspired by one can attest to its action-packed nature. Some might wonder what the point is to just passing down stories—stories that were made up and were in no way true but that was the beauty of Greek mythology in ancient times. They became the perfect way to impart lessons without being dull or boring.
  What Did These Myths Do?
  These myths were told to people and it helped them realize the difference between right and wrong. It helped them come to terms with how they should be humble and never think themselves immortal or they might just be proven wrong in the most horrible and inopportune of ways. Also, these tales tell people of heroes and how true greatness was achieved by those who dared while at the same breath, showing the flaws of these heroes.
  
  Any modern person who reads or hears of Greek myths will be hard-pressed to stay unaffected. They are simply that good and this proves just how relevant they still are. Anyone can pick up a book of Greek myths. For sure, they will get something from it. 
  
  
  
  
  What did we do in class today?
  1. We completed our "history lesson" on Athens and Sparta, and then watched a clip from 300 to illustrate the Spartan way of life.
  
  2. We then discussed "WHAT IS MYTHOLOGY?"
  3. THE two different types of myths.
  4. Homer
  5. Then we began with The Creation myth!
   
  
  It was a busy day!
  
  I look forward to seeing you on Friday!
  Cheers,
  Crampton

Welcome to Mythology! 2015-2016

"Organized Chaos"

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 Monday, August 24th, 2015
1. Supplies with five dividers ( assignments, notes, handouts, vocab./mechanics, journal)

HOMEWORK for Monday, August 24th, 2015
2. "What is a Classic? " 

What is a Classic? DUE DATE: Monday, August 24th

Explanation: If something is referred to as "classic," what does that mean? Many times when individuals hear the world "classic," they naturally think of pieces of literature or art, which, of course apply and make sense; however, in addition to literature and art, there are a myriad of other aspects to our culture that could be considered "classic."

Prior to explaining your assignment, allow me to give you some insight into the word "classic." It has been suggested that the Latin root classicus, relates to the "first or highest class or division" in which the Roman people were anciently divided.  These individuals were often spoken of as "classici." So, the word "CLASSIC" could be interpreted to mean "of the first class" or of the highest order. " The meaning is probably best captured by our slang expression, "classy."

So, knowing this little bit of information, what do you consider to be "classic?" 

Assignment: For your assignment, you are to consider the word "classic," and then locate an image of what you to be "classic." There is no "right" or "wrong" answer, as long as you can justify your choice as being "of the highest order." In addition, you need to further justify your choice in writinb by answering the following questions in your response.

1. Identify your "classic " choice.
2. In your words, what does the term "classic" mean to you?
3. In a brief paragraph, explain why you consider your choice to be "classic?" Please be specific. A response such as, "Because I like it," is not sufficient!

Finally, in another paragraph , tell me why you thihk we call the myths of the ancient Greeks and Romans "Classical Mythology?" Why not just call the "myths of Greece and Rome? Or even better, Grecian and Roman Mythology? " We call the myths of China "Chinese Mythology." So, why do you suppose we call the myths of Greece and Rome, "Classical Mythology?"

Requirements: 

1. Please type, double space your response, using 12 ptt font, Times New Roman print
2. Include an image of your chosen "classic example."
3. Follow the example offered on the explanation handout given to you on Thursday.
4. Include your first and last name, my name, period, and date in the upper left corner of your assignment (MLA format)    

HERE ARE SOME PREVIOUS STUDENT EXAMPLES. Please do not repeat these.

 Disney Characters and what they represent to children

 Warm apple pie and vanilla ice cream

 

Solitaire Diamond Ring

 Pearls

 First Kiss

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

Posted by Crampton at 9:39 AM

Welcome to Norse Mythology/ O3/20/2015)

Dear Mythology Kids,

WELCOME TO NORSE MYTHOLOGY!

Dear Mythology Kids, 
STOP MISSING CLASS, and if you do miss class, then FIND OUT WHAT YOU MISSED. Focus on being PRO-ACTIVE!

1. Each student returned his/her Classical Mythology text and obtained a Norse Text, in addition to a packet of materials that will guide us through the first two weeks of Norse mythology!

This is what you missed today!

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 TUESDAY. includes the following: 

 

1. Please make flashcards for the characters discussed today in class......the first 12...up to YGGDRASIL!

2. Anticipate a quiz covering the introductory information on Tuesday! 

2. "PERSONALIZED ITHACA" is due on APRIL 3rd!

3. Please read " " in your book up to page

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.

March 5th, 2015

Dear Mythology Kids,

I have missed you. I  hope that I can be with you from now on, but at least you understand the circumstances behind why I have been absent!  As I mentioned in class, those of you that believe in the power of prayer, please pray for me, and those you that don't please send me good Karma!

I am posting the MOTIFS for you below, so that you can have the information necessary for your final exam.  Thank sweet Kaylee Anderson for her amazing note taking skills. If you missed class today, then I would recommend that you visit with someone that was present! We discussed a significant amount of information regarding THE ODYSSEY!

Female Power:

Penelope: “She could not marry until she had woven… pg 294

Athena: “Help me to vengeance” pg 292

Circe: every man who approached her turned into a beast pg 307

Female Power:

Penelope: Took control of the situation pg 212, 213

Circe: Took control of men by turning them into beasts pg 223

Sirens: Take control of men with song pg 223

Calypso: Odysseus’ slave pg 220

Appearance vs. Reality:

Trojan Horse: Looks good, but in reality holds an army pgs 281-282

Circe Animals: Turned men into pigs pg 307

Sirens:  Destroyed men with their alluring song pgs 223-224

Veneration of Guest and Host:

Phaesians and Odysseus: Very Hospitable pg 220

Menelaus and Telemachus: smell nice pg 215

Odysseus and Cyclops: bashed head on ground pg 86

Power of Cunning:

Trojan Horse: Came through with cunning pg 204

Penelope: weaved funeral quilt for father then took it out each night pg 213

Cyclops: Left cave after the stabbing of the eye, outsmarted him with his name pg 87

HOMEWORK:

1. Please locate two additional motifs for each listed above from today's class discussion!