Perseus and Medusa

How many years separate the first writers of myths from the last according to the text?

• Five hundred

• Twelve hundred

• Two thousand

• One thousand

Answer explanation

According to the text, the first writers of myths are separated from the last by twelve hundred years, making 'Twelve hundred' the correct answer.

Which two stories are mentioned as being unlike each other?

• "Hamlet" and "Macbeth"

• "Cinderella" and "King Lear"

• "Romeo and Juliet" and "Othello"

• "The Tempest" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream"

Answer explanation

"Cinderella" is a fairy tale focused on magic and transformation, while "King Lear" is a tragic drama about betrayal and madness. Their themes and tones are vastly different, making them unlike each other.

What does the author say about the stories told by Ovid?

• They are simple and devout

• They are subtle and polished

• They are humorous and light-hearted

• They are modern and relatable

Answer explanation

The author describes Ovid's stories as subtle and polished, highlighting their refined nature and complexity, which distinguishes them from simpler or more humorous narratives.

What is the most famous passage of a poem by Simonides of Ceos about?

• The birth of Zeus

• The description of Danaë in the wooden chest

• The adventures of Hercules

• The fall of Troy

Answer explanation

The most famous passage by Simonides of Ceos describes Danaë in the wooden chest, highlighting her beauty and the dramatic circumstances of her confinement, which is a significant theme in Greek mythology.

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How did Zeus visit Danaë in her chamber?

• As a swan

• As a bull

• As a shower of gold

• As a gentle breeze

Answer explanation

Zeus visited Danaë in her chamber as a shower of gold, which allowed him to bypass the locked door and reach her. This mythological transformation is a key element in the story of their union.

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What did Polydectes want to do with Perseus?

• Make him a knight

• Send him to another island

• Get rid of him

• Adopt him as his son

Answer explanation

Polydectes wanted to get rid of Perseus because he saw him as a threat to his intentions, particularly regarding Perseus's mother, Danae. He devised a plan to eliminate Perseus by sending him on a dangerous quest.

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How did Polydectes plan to celebrate his upcoming marriage?

• By hosting a grand feast

• By organizing a hunting trip

• By inviting friends and asking for gifts

• By building a new palace

Answer explanation

Polydectes planned to celebrate his marriage by inviting friends and asking for gifts, which reflects his desire for support and acknowledgment from his peers rather than just a lavish event.

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Why did Polydectes want to get rid of Perseus?

• He was jealous of Perseus' strength

• He wanted Danaë for himself

• He feared Perseus' power

• He disliked Perseus' attitude

Answer explanation

Polydectes wanted to get rid of Perseus because he desired Danaë for himself. By eliminating Perseus, he hoped to remove any obstacles to winning her affection.

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What did Perseus need to find before attacking Medusa?

• The nymphs of the North

• The golden fleece

• The sacred fire

• The oracle of Delphi

Answer explanation

Before attacking Medusa, Perseus needed to find the nymphs of the North. They provided him with essential items, including the reflective shield necessary to avoid Medusa's petrifying gaze.

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What did the other Gorgons do after Medusa was slain?

• Fled in fear

• Tried to pursue Perseus

• Turned to stone

• Disappeared

Answer explanation

After Medusa was slain, the other Gorgons, enraged by her death, tried to pursue Perseus to avenge her. This highlights their protective nature towards their sister.