Trivia Questions On Ancient Greek Civilization

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  • 1/25 Questions

    Which city-state created the first democratic form of government?

    • Sparta
    • Athens
    • Corinth
    • Argos
    • None of the above
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About This Quiz

This quiz explores Ancient Greek Civilization, focusing on its geographical context, historical periods like the Dark Ages, and cultural contributions such as Homer's epic poems. It assesses understanding of key elements that shaped this influential civilization.

Trivia Questions On Ancient Greek Civilization - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    What does the word "democracy" mean?

    • Rule by the people

    • Rule of the few

    • Rule of the rich

    • Rule of the aristocrats

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Rule by the people
    Explanation
    The word "democracy" refers to a system of government in which the power and authority are vested in the people. It is a form of government where the citizens have the right to participate in decision-making processes, either directly or through elected representatives. In a democratic system, the people have the ability to elect their leaders and hold them accountable for their actions. This ensures that the government is based on the will of the people and promotes equality, freedom, and the protection of individual rights.

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  • 3. 

    Who wrote the Iliad and the Odyssey?

    • Herodotus

    • Pericles

    • Homer

    • Hesiod

    • Sappho

    Correct Answer
    A. Homer
    Explanation
    Homer is the correct answer because he is widely believed to be the author of both the Iliad and the Odyssey. These epic poems are considered to be among the greatest works of ancient Greek literature. Homer's authorship is supported by the fact that both poems share similar linguistic and stylistic features, as well as common themes and characters. Additionally, ancient Greek writers and philosophers, such as Herodotus and Plato, referred to Homer as the author of these works.

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  • 4. 

    What is the Greek word for city-state?

    • Hoplite

    • Polis

    • Agora

    • Parthenon

    • Stoa

    Correct Answer
    A. Polis
    Explanation
    The Greek word for city-state is "Polis". In ancient Greece, a polis referred to an independent city-state that had its own government and laws. The polis was the central unit of Greek society and played a crucial role in politics, culture, and warfare. It served as a self-governing community where citizens participated in decision-making and had rights and responsibilities. The term "polis" is derived from the Greek word "polis" which means city or city-state.

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  • 5. 

    Who is considered the father of modern medicine?

    • Homer

    • Hippocrates

    • Herodotus

    • Hesiod

    • Iktinos

    Correct Answer
    A. Hippocrates
    Explanation
    Hippocrates is considered the father of modern medicine because he revolutionized the field by emphasizing the importance of observing and recording symptoms, as well as the natural progression of diseases. He also established a code of ethics for physicians, known as the Hippocratic Oath, which is still followed today. His contributions laid the foundation for evidence-based medicine and the scientific approach to healthcare.

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  • 6. 

    In which of the following fields did Greeks make significant contributions to Western Civilization?

    • Art and architecture

    • Drama and literature

    • Math and science

    • Politics, philosophy, history

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    The Greeks made significant contributions to Western Civilization in all of the mentioned fields. In art and architecture, they developed the concept of idealized human figures and created magnificent structures like the Parthenon. In drama and literature, they introduced the genres of tragedy and comedy, and produced famous playwrights like Sophocles and Aristophanes. In math and science, they made breakthroughs in geometry, astronomy, and medicine, with notable figures like Pythagoras and Hippocrates. In politics, philosophy, and history, the Greeks laid the foundation for democracy, engaged in philosophical inquiry, and recorded historical events, with influential thinkers like Plato and Herodotus.

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  • 7. 

    Who is considered the father of history?

    • Homer

    • Hippocrates

    • Herodotus

    • Hesiod

    • Iktinos

    Correct Answer
    A. Herodotus
    Explanation
    Herodotus is considered the father of history because he was the first known historian to systematically collect and record historical events. His work, "The Histories," is considered the first major historical account of the ancient world. Herodotus pioneered the use of critical analysis, interviews, and firsthand observations to gather information, setting the foundation for the study of history as we know it today. His contributions to the field of history have had a lasting impact and he is widely regarded as the father of the discipline.

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  • 8. 

    What three seas connected Greece with the outside world?

    • Arctic, Indian, Pacific

    • Mediterranean, Atlantic, Black

    • Ionian, Aegean, Indian

    • Aegean, Black, Mediterranean

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Aegean, Black, Mediterranean
    Explanation
    The Aegean, Black, and Mediterranean seas are the three seas that connect Greece with the outside world. Greece is located in southeastern Europe and is surrounded by these three seas. The Aegean Sea is located to the east of Greece, the Black Sea is located to the northeast, and the Mediterranean Sea is located to the south. These seas have played a significant role in Greece's history, culture, and economy, as they have facilitated trade, transportation, and communication with other countries.

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  • 9. 

    The first Greek civilization to develop was:

    • The Minoan civilization on the island of Crete

    • The Mycenaean civilization on the Greek mainland

    • The Ionian civilizaiton in Asia Minor

    • The Spartan civilization of the Peloponnesus

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. The Minoan civilization on the island of Crete
    Explanation
    The Minoan civilization on the island of Crete is considered the first Greek civilization to develop because it emerged around 2700 BC, predating the Mycenaean civilization on the Greek mainland by several centuries. The Minoans were known for their advanced culture, including their impressive palace complexes, sophisticated art and pottery, and extensive trade networks. They also had a system of writing known as Linear A, although it remains undeciphered. The Minoan civilization declined around 1450 BC, possibly due to natural disasters or invasions, paving the way for the rise of the Mycenaean civilization.

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  • 10. 

    Which of the following statements describes the Dark Ages of Greece?

    • They occurred after the fall of the Mycenaean civilization

    • There was a significant decline in the population

    • There was a significant decline in food production

    • There was a significant decline in literacy and education

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    The Dark Ages of Greece refers to a period of decline that followed the fall of the Mycenaean civilization. During this time, there was a significant decline in the population, food production, and literacy and education. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above."

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  • 11. 

    Which of the following statements is true concerning the Iliad?

    • It was just an adventure story for kids

    • Greeks considered it to be a record of their history

    • It was based on tales that had been passed down orally for many generations

    • All of the above

    • B and C only

    Correct Answer
    A. B and C only
    Explanation
    The Iliad was not just an adventure story for kids, but it was considered by the Greeks to be a record of their history. Additionally, the Iliad was based on tales that had been passed down orally for many generations. Therefore, the correct answer is B and C only.

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  • 12. 

    Which of the following statements describes the agoge?

    • Spartan military training

    • It began at the age of 7 (for boys only)

    • It included surviving a year in the wild on your own

    • It was so harsh that it sometimes resulted in the severe injury or death of a trainee

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    The agoge was the Spartan military training program that began at the age of 7 for boys only. It was known for its harshness and rigorousness, which included surviving a year in the wild on their own. The training was so intense that it sometimes resulted in severe injuries or even death of the trainees. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above" as all the statements accurately describe the agoge.

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  • 13. 

    The rectangular formation of soldiers standing shoulder to shoulder was called a ______.

    • Hoplite

    • Phalanx

    • Rear guard

    • Cavalry

    • Both A and C

    Correct Answer
    A. Phalanx
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "phalanx." The term "phalanx" refers to a rectangular formation of soldiers standing shoulder to shoulder. This formation was commonly used in ancient Greek warfare and was known for its strength and cohesion. The soldiers in a phalanx would typically hold a long spear called a hoplite, which is why "hoplite" is also a possible correct answer. "Rear guard" and "cavalry" are not related to the specific formation described in the question.

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  • 14. 

    Which of the following statements describes some element Greece's geography?

    • Greece is a peninsula surrounded by over 1000 islands

    • Greece is very mountainous

    • Greece is a land of vast fertile plains

    • A and B only

    • A and C only

    Correct Answer
    A. A and B only
    Explanation
    The correct answer is A and B only. This means that Greece is a peninsula surrounded by over 1000 islands and it is also very mountainous. The statement does not mention anything about Greece being a land of vast fertile plains, so option C is not included in the correct answer.

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  • 15. 

    Which philosopher used a question and answer method still used in schools today?

    • Democritus

    • Socrates

    • Plato

    • Aristotle

    • Epicurus

    Correct Answer
    A. Socrates
    Explanation
    Socrates used a question and answer method called the Socratic method, which is still used in schools today. This method involves asking probing questions to stimulate critical thinking and encourage students to arrive at their own conclusions. Socrates believed that through questioning, individuals could uncover their own knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. His method has been widely adopted in educational settings as an effective way to foster active learning and engage students in meaningful discussions.

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  • 16. 

    Which philosopher started the first university called the Academy in Athens?

    • Democritus

    • Socrates

    • Plato

    • Aristotle

    • Epicurus

    Correct Answer
    A. Plato
    Explanation
    Plato is the correct answer because he founded the first university called the Academy in Athens. The Academy was a renowned center of learning in ancient Greece and it played a significant role in the development of Western philosophy and education. Plato, a student of Socrates, established the Academy in 387 BC and it operated for nearly 900 years.

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  • 17. 

    Who was excluded from participating in the first form of democracy?

    • Foreigners

    • Women

    • Slaves

    • All of the above

    • B and C only

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    In the first form of democracy, all of the above mentioned groups - foreigners, women, and slaves - were excluded from participating. This means that these groups were not given the right to vote or have a say in the decision-making processes of the democratic system.

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  • 18. 

    Why did Spartans provide young girls with an education and athletic training?

    • If all the men were killed, the women would have to fight.

    • Women had to be strong and healthy in order to have strong and healthy children.

    • Woman had to be prepared to serve in the Spartan counsil.

    • All of the above

    • Both A and C

    Correct Answer
    A. Women had to be strong and healthy in order to have strong and healthy children.
    Explanation
    Spartans provided young girls with an education and athletic training because women had to be strong and healthy in order to have strong and healthy children. This was important for the survival and strength of the Spartan society.

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  • 19. 

    Which geographic features played significant roles in the development of Greek civilization?

    • Deserts and oases

    • River valleys and fertile plains

    • Mountains and seas

    • Spacious skies and amber waves of grain

    • Both B and C

    Correct Answer
    A. Mountains and seas
    Explanation
    The geographic features of mountains and seas played significant roles in the development of Greek civilization. The mountains provided natural barriers, which led to the formation of independent city-states and the development of unique political systems. The rugged terrain also encouraged a sense of individualism and self-sufficiency. The seas, on the other hand, provided the Greeks with access to trade routes and allowed them to establish colonies and expand their influence. The sea also facilitated cultural exchange and the spread of ideas. Overall, the combination of mountains and seas shaped the geography of ancient Greece and influenced its political, economic, and cultural development.

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  • 20. 

    Who took Athenian democracy to its highest form through the promotion of arts & sciences?

    • Pericles

    • Pythagoras

    • Pheidias

    • Plato

    • Polykleitos

    Correct Answer
    A. Pericles
    Explanation
    Pericles is the correct answer because he was an influential statesman and orator in ancient Athens who played a crucial role in the development and flourishing of Athenian democracy. He promoted the arts and sciences by supporting artists, architects, and philosophers, and by initiating ambitious building projects such as the Parthenon. Pericles' leadership and patronage helped to elevate Athenian democracy to its highest form, making him the most likely choice for the individual who took Athenian democracy to its peak.

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  • 21. 

    Which city-state was ruled by an oligarchy?

    • Sparta

    • Athens

    • Corinth

    • Argos

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Sparta
    Explanation
    Sparta was ruled by an oligarchy. In an oligarchy, power is held by a small group of people who are typically wealthy and influential. In Sparta, this group was known as the Spartan Council of Elders, which consisted of 28 men over the age of 60. These elders made decisions on behalf of the city-state and had significant control over political and military affairs. The oligarchic rule in Sparta was characterized by a strict social hierarchy, militarism, and the suppression of individual rights in favor of the collective good.

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  • 22. 

    Which statement is NOT true of the Athenian attitude toward women?

    • Women had no rights

    • Women could not participate in politics

    • Women were held in high honor and greatly respected

    • Women were essentially baby-making machines

    • Both B and C

    Correct Answer
    A. Women were held in high honor and greatly respected
    Explanation
    The Athenian attitude toward women was not one of holding them in high honor and greatly respecting them. Women in Athens had limited rights and were not allowed to participate in politics. They were primarily expected to fulfill the role of bearing children. Therefore, the statement "Women were held in high honor and greatly respected" is not true in the context of Athenian society.

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  • 23. 

    Which philosopher believed that "scientific" observation of a thing could lead to the discovery of its true nature?

    • Democritus

    • Socrates

    • Plato

    • Aristotle

    • Epicurus

    Correct Answer
    A. Aristotle
    Explanation
    Aristotle believed that "scientific" observation of a thing could lead to the discovery of its true nature. He emphasized the importance of empirical observation and believed that through careful observation and analysis, one could uncover the essence and true nature of things. Aristotle's approach to knowledge and understanding the world around him laid the foundation for scientific inquiry and the development of the scientific method.

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  • 24. 

    Which of the following is true of a hoplite?

    • They were soldiers on horseback

    • Their main weapons were bow and arrow

    • They wore light chain mail

    • They carried long swords

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. None of the above
    Explanation
    A hoplite was a heavily armed foot soldier in ancient Greece. They were not soldiers on horseback, as mentioned in the first option. Their main weapons were spears and shields, not bow and arrow as mentioned in the second option. They wore heavy bronze armor, not light chain mail as mentioned in the third option. They carried spears and short swords, not long swords as mentioned in the fourth option. Therefore, none of the above options accurately describe a hoplite.

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  • 25. 

    What creations of Aesop's still exist today?

    • A collection of fables

    • A collection of stories wherein animal characters give lessons on life

    • A collection of epic poems

    • All of the above

    • A and B only

    Correct Answer
    A. A and B only
    Explanation
    The correct answer is A and B only. Aesop's fables, which are a collection of stories where animal characters give lessons on life, still exist today. These fables are widely known and have been passed down through generations. However, there is no mention of Aesop creating a collection of epic poems, so option C is not correct. Option D, "all of the above," is also incorrect as it includes option C. Therefore, the correct answer is A and B only.

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  • Current Version
  • Jul 14, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Dec 09, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Khannold
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