Ancient Civilizations Chapter 8 (Vocabulary)

An epic is a term used to describe a long adventure story that is typically told in poem format. Epics often involve heroic characters, grand themes, and mythical or historical settings. They are known for their length and complexity, with a narrative structure that spans across multiple books or cantos. Examples of famous epics include Homer's "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey," as well as Virgil's "The Aeneid." These stories are considered important literary works and often explore universal themes such as heroism, fate, and the human condition.

A peninsula is a term used to describe a piece of land that is surrounded by water on at least three sides. It is a landform that juts out into a body of water, such as a sea or ocean, and is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land called an isthmus. Peninsulas can vary in size and shape, and they are often characterized by their coastal features and unique ecosystems.

This term refers to a piece of land that is settled on by distant outsiders. The correct answer is colonies or colony. A colony is a territory or area that is controlled and settled by people from a distant country. It typically involves the establishment of a permanent settlement by a group of people who are not native to the land. The term can also refer to a group of people who have migrated to a new area and established a community there.

Maritime refers to a culture that relies on the sea or any body of water for their survival or prosperity. This can include activities such as fishing, trade, and transportation. Maritime cultures often develop specific skills and knowledge related to navigation, shipbuilding, and fishing techniques. They have a deep connection to the sea and its resources, shaping their way of life and economy. This term encompasses societies that have a strong dependence on the ocean and its resources for their livelihood and development.

The term "polis" refers to a Greek word meaning "politics" and also refers to a city-state governed by groups of powerful landowners. In ancient Greece, the polis was the fundamental political unit, consisting of a city and its surrounding territory. The polis was governed by a group of wealthy landowners who held power and made decisions for the city-state. This term encompasses both the political and geographical aspects of the city-state in ancient Greece.

The term "democracy" refers to the Greek words "demos" and "kratos". "Demos" means "people" and "kratos" means "rule" or "power". Therefore, democracy can be understood as "rule by the people" or "power of the people". In a democratic system, the citizens have the authority to participate in decision-making processes, either directly or through elected representatives.

The correct answer is "spartan, Spartan." The term "Spartan" refers to a typical warrior from Sparta, Greece. It is also used to describe something as "hard" or "severe."

A tyrant is a term used to describe a ruler who governs through the use of threats and/or force. They exercise absolute power and control over a land, often disregarding the rights and freedoms of the people. This term is similar to that of a dictator, as both involve the concentration of power in the hands of one individual who rules with an iron fist.

Shrines refer to special sites where gods were believed to have lived. These places hold religious significance and are considered sacred by followers. Shrines are often built to honor and worship specific deities or spiritual figures. They serve as a focal point for religious rituals, offerings, and prayers. People visit shrines to seek blessings, guidance, and spiritual connection with the divine. Shrines can be found in various forms, such as temples, altars, or designated natural locations. They play an essential role in many religious traditions and are regarded as places of divine presence and power.

Philosophy is the correct answer because it is the term that refers to the Greek "love of wisdom" and also encompasses the area in which many Greeks prided themselves for their high intellect. Philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and more, and it was highly regarded in ancient Greece as a pursuit of wisdom and understanding.

A siege train refers to a military tactic that involves the use of portable towers and ramming devices to attack various cities. This tactic is used during a siege, where the attacking force surrounds a city and cuts off its supplies, aiming to force the inhabitants to surrender. The siege train consists of movable towers that are used to gain an elevated position and breach the city walls, while ramming devices are used to break down gates or walls. This tactic has been employed throughout history to successfully capture fortified cities and strongholds.

The term "Hellenistic" refers to a Greek period that was characterized by the new ideas and contributions of Greek philosophers, scientists, and poets. This period was marked by the spread of Greek culture and influence across a vast empire, following the conquests of Alexander the Great. The Hellenistic Period is often seen as a time of great intellectual and cultural development, as Greek ideas and traditions merged with those of other civilizations, creating a unique and influential blend of cultures.

This term refers to stories passed down from generation to generation that are typically untrue or unproven. These stories, known as myths, often contain elements of folklore, legends, or religious beliefs. They are often used to explain natural phenomena, cultural traditions, or historical events. Myths can vary across different cultures and have been used throughout history to teach moral lessons or convey cultural values.

Oracles or an oracle refers to a prophecy or prediction about the future. It is a term commonly used in ancient Greek and Roman mythology, where individuals or places were believed to possess the ability to communicate with the gods and provide insights into future events. Oracles were highly respected and sought after for their divine knowledge and guidance. They played a significant role in decision-making, as people would consult them for advice and predictions before making important choices or embarking on significant endeavors.