1. GREEK VALUES It is important to understand some of the main Greek values of the time because…. These values help explain characters’ motivations

2. Greek Values (explains characters’ motivations) Reciprocity: Mutual exchange between two people You give to me, I give to you You help me, later I have to help you

3. Greek Values (explains characters’ motivations) Hospitality: Treat all guests with respect Be nice first, ask questions later A stranger could be a god in disguise! Be our guest, be our guest, put our service to the test...

4. Greek Values (explains characters’ motivations) Arete: Greek idea of excellence, an ideal of human perfection Intelligence (be smart and cunning) Strength Courage Duty

5. Greek Values (explains characters’ motivations) Religion: Actions should please the gods Fate controlled by the god Humans need the gods (man, without the gods, is nothing) [Odysseus’ revelation] Humans should honor gods through sacrifices, asking gods for help, and giving credit to gods

6. Epics and Heroes What is Hubris? Hubris is extreme arrogance or self-pride. Often in Greek tragedies, hubris would be the fatal flaw of the main character, often resulting in their downfall. In Mythology, humans sometimes demonstrated hubris, which angered the gods. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZqPXBJ8xLk Tony Stark (Iron Man)

7. Performs acts of great bravery which are necessary because of continual conflict Struggles with temptation but learns from his mistakes Asks for (and receives) aid/ help from supernatural forces (gods) Finally succeeds in reaching his seemingly impossible goal