Mysteries of Vernacular: Clue

The video explores the evolution of the word 'clue' from its origins as a ball of yarn or thread to its current meaning as a guide to solving mysteries. It highlights the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, where Theseus uses a ball of string to navigate a labyrinth. Over time, the word 'clue' became associated with problem-solving methods, losing its original connection to yarn by the 17th century.

What was the original meaning of the word 'clue'?

• A Greek mythological creature

• A type of detective fiction

• A ball of yarn or thread

• A guide to solving mysteries

In Greek mythology, who was Theseus supposed to defeat?

• Ariadne

• The Sphinx

• Medusa

• The Minotaur

What did Ariadne give Theseus to help him escape the labyrinth?

• A map

• A torch

• A ball of string

• A sword

How did Theseus use the ball of string in the labyrinth?

• He tied it to the Minotaur

• He used it to find the entrance

• He used it to distract the Minotaur

• He laid it down to trace his path

By the 17th century, what did the word 'clue' primarily mean?

• A mythological reference

• A guide to a solution

• A type of yarn

• A ball of string

Which historical figure's times are mentioned in relation to the evolution of the word 'clue'?

• Chaucer

• Homer

• Plato

• Shakespeare

What was forgotten about the word 'clue' by the 17th century?

• Its association with detective fiction

• Its original spelling

• Its link to Greek mythology

• Its connection to a ball of string