Orpheus, Arachne, Midas (Character Flaws)

Why did the gods choose not to help King Midas, at first, when he begged them to take back his wish?

• They didn't have the power to reverse the wish

• They wanted to teach King Midas a lesson

• They were angry at King Midas for his greed

• They were too busy with other matters

Would it be a compliment to tell someone they have the 'Midas touch'?

• No, because it refers to King Midas' punishment

• Yes, because it means they have the ability to make things successful

• No, because it refers to King Midas' tragic flaw

• Yes, because it means they have the ability to turn things to gold

How can myths such as the story of King Midas help us to make wise future decisions?

• By encouraging us to seek out magical wishes

• By demonstrating the value of gold and riches

• By showing us the power of gods and goddesses

• By teaching us the consequences of greed and selfishness

What problem (flaw) does the character of Arachne have? How does this end up hurting her?

• Fear, which prevents her from achieving her goals

• Generosity, which makes her vulnerable

• Laziness, which causes her to lose her skills

• Pride, which leads to her downfall

What is Athena's final warning to Arachne?

• To stop weaving altogether

• To apologize and acknowledge Athena's skill

• To continue weaving but with humility

• To challenge Athena to a final competition

What values (lessons/morals) does the story of Arachne hope to teach the people of Greece?

• The importance of humility and respect for the gods

• The value of hard work and dedication

• The power of revenge and defiance

• The significance of wealth and material possessions

Does Arachne deserve the punishment she receives? Was Athena a fair goddess?

• Yes, because Athena's actions were justified

• No, because Athena's punishment was too harsh

• No, because Arachne was simply defending her skills

• Yes, because Arachne's pride was her downfall

How does Eurydice die? What is especially tragic about her death?

• She dies in a battle, which is tragic for her family

• She dies in a fire, which is tragic for her community

• She dies of old age, which is tragic for her loved ones

• She dies from a snake bite, which is tragic for Orpheus

Discuss the way Orpheus's music is influenced and changed by his feelings at various points in the story.

• His music becomes more joyful as he searches for Eurydice

• His music becomes softer and soothing as he accepts Eurydice's fate

• His music becomes more intense and painful as he mourns Eurydice

• His music becomes aggressive and angry as he confronts Hades

Is Hades fair to Orpheus and Eurydice?

• No, because he refuses to let Eurydice return to the upper world

• Yes, because he shows compassion towards Orpheus and Eurydice

• Yes, because he allows Orpheus to try and save Eurydice

• No, because he punishes Orpheus for his love and grief