Parthenon and Athenian Culture

The video explores the architectural marvels of the Parthenon, highlighting its optical illusions and the grand statue of Athena. It delves into the controversies surrounding its construction, the role of Aspasia in Athenian society, and the impact of the Peloponnesian War. The legacy of Greek culture is discussed, focusing on figures like Philip II and Alexander the Great.

What architectural feature of the Parthenon creates an optical illusion of straight lines?

• The Doric columns

• The triangular pediment

• The flat roof

• The rectangular base

What materials were used to construct the statue of Athena inside the Parthenon?

• Silver and wood

• Gold and ivory

• Marble and bronze

• Stone and clay

What was the purpose of the frieze inside the Parthenon?

• To show the battles of Athens

• To celebrate the goddess Athena

• To illustrate the life of Pericles

• To depict the construction of the Parthenon

How did some Athenians view the construction of the Parthenon?

• As a tribute to Spartan culture

• As a symbol of Pericles' vanity

• As a necessary religious site

• As a simple architectural project

Who was Aspasia in relation to Pericles?

• His political rival

• His daughter

• His consort

• His sister

What was scandalous about Pericles' relationship with Aspasia?

• They conspired against Athens

• They were of different social classes

• They were secretly married

• They publicly displayed affection

What major event marked the decline of Athenian power?

• The construction of the Parthenon

• The rise of the Roman Empire

• The death of Alexander the Great

• The Peloponnesian War

What was the impact of the plague on Athens during the Peloponnesian War?

• It led to the fall of Sparta

• It improved public health

• It strengthened Athens' military

• It caused significant loss of life

Who were the two figures associated with the spread of Greek culture after the fall of Athens?

• Socrates and Plato

• Pericles and Aspasia

• Philip II and Alexander the Great

• Homer and Hesiod

What was Alexander the Great known for in relation to Greek culture?

• Defeating the Romans

• Building the Parthenon

• Spreading Hellenism

• Inventing democracy