"Troy" Review

What can we learn about a society from its stories and myths?

One theme in Troy is "Revenge always leads to regret."

What is another example of a theme in this play?

In Scene 3, Patroclus promises Achilles that he, Patroclus, won’t fight Hector. The chorus then says, “But the desire for glory makes liars of us all.” What events does this line foreshadow?

• Patroclus fights Hector and dies.

• Achilles fights Hector and wins.

• Hector surrenders to Achilles.

• Patroclus and Hector become allies.

After Patroclus crumples in Scene 4, the stage directors say “The fighting stops. Trojans and Greeks gather in solemn disbelief.” Why is it difficult for both sides to believe what has just happened?

• Because Patroclus was a key warrior and his fall was unexpected.

• Because the war was supposed to end with a truce.

• Because both sides were equally matched and no one expected a loss.

• Because the gods intervened and stopped the fight.

Consider Athena’s line to Hector on the battlefield in Scene 8: “Athena (slyly): The gods are with you, Hector.” What do the character directions in this line help readers understand?

• Athena is genuinely supporting Hector.

• Athena is being sarcastic and deceitful.

• Athena is indifferent to Hector's fate.

• Athena is warning Hector of danger.

This play is based on one of the oldest and most famous stories ever written about war. What does it say about the nature of war and its effect on people?

• It glorifies war and its heroes.

• It highlights the futility and devastation of war.

• It presents war as a necessary evil.

• It romanticizes the idea of war.

Based on the play, what qualities can you conclude were highly valued in ancient Greece?