Mcs Sparta Hsc Quiz
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Who were the Perioikoi?
- A.
Olivia Cottam
- B.
State owned slaves
- C.
Dwellers around
- D.
Council of elders
Correct Answer
C. Dwellers aroundExplanation
The Perioikoi were a group of people who lived in ancient Sparta. They were not slaves, as stated in the first option. Instead, they were free inhabitants who lived in the areas surrounding Sparta. They were not part of the Council of elders, as mentioned in the third option. Therefore, the correct answer is that the Perioikoi were dwellers around Sparta.Rate this question:
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- 2.
How many Ephors were there?
- A.
6
- B.
10
- C.
28
- D.
5
Correct Answer
D. 5Explanation
The question is asking for the number of Ephors. The correct answer is 5. This means that there were 5 Ephors in total.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What is a Kleros?
- A.
Allotment of land
- B.
Spartan slave
- C.
Spartan education system
- D.
Olivia Cottam
Correct Answer
A. Allotment of landExplanation
A Kleros refers to the allotment of land. In ancient Greece, the term "kleros" was used to describe the process of distributing land among citizens. This was a way to ensure fairness and prevent concentration of power. The land was typically divided into smaller plots and assigned to individuals or families. The practice of kleros played a significant role in the social and economic structure of ancient Greek society.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Herodotus wrote the Life of Lycurgus
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because Herodotus did not write the "Life of Lycurgus." Herodotus was an ancient Greek historian known for his work "The Histories," which focused on the Persian Wars. The "Life of Lycurgus" was actually written by Plutarch, a later Greek historian and biographer.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What was the most amount of Spartiates there were at one time?
- A.
7,000
- B.
9,000-10,000
- C.
6
- D.
10,000-13,000
Correct Answer
B. 9,000-10,000Explanation
During ancient times, Sparta was known for its strong military culture and its citizens, known as Spartiates, were highly trained warriors. The given answer, 9,000-10,000, suggests that at one time, the maximum number of Spartiates reached this range. This indicates that there was a significant population of trained Spartan warriors during that period, showcasing the strength and power of the Spartan military.Rate this question:
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- 6.
How long were the Gerontes elected for?
Correct Answer
lifeExplanation
The Gerontes were elected for life. This means that once they were elected as Gerontes, they held their position for the rest of their lives. There was no specific term limit or time period for their tenure. This system ensured stability and continuity in the governing body, as the Gerontes were experienced and knowledgeable individuals who provided guidance and leadership to the community.Rate this question:
- 7.
What couldn't the Ephors do?
- A.
Control public finances
- B.
Accompany kings of campaign
- C.
Put kings on trial
- D.
Judge criminal cases involving Perioikoi
Correct Answer
C. Put kings on trialExplanation
The Ephors were a group of high-ranking officials in ancient Sparta who held significant power. They were responsible for controlling public finances, accompanying kings on campaigns, and judging criminal cases involving Perioikoi (non-citizen inhabitants of Sparta). However, they did not have the authority to put kings on trial. This was because the kings held a special position in Spartan society and were considered semi-divine, making them immune to the jurisdiction of the Ephors.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What was an eirene?
- A.
Spartiate over age 20
- B.
Kings son
- C.
Member of the Krypteia
- D.
Spartiate over age 13
Correct Answer
A. Spartiate over age 20Explanation
An eirene was a Spartiate over the age of 20. In ancient Sparta, the Spartiates were the full citizens and the ruling class. They were required to undergo rigorous military training from a young age and were considered the elite warriors of Sparta. The eirenes were specifically Spartiates who had reached the age of 20, which was the age at which they were considered fully mature and ready to serve in the military.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Spartiates were liable for military service between the ages of . . . . ?
- A.
2-200
- B.
15-60
- C.
30-60
- D.
18-60
Correct Answer
D. 18-60Explanation
Spartiates were liable for military service between the ages of 18-60. This means that all Spartan men who were citizens were expected to serve in the military from the age of 18 until they reached 60 years old. This long period of military service was a key aspect of Spartan society and reflected their emphasis on military training and readiness.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Where was the Hyakinthia held?
- A.
Messenia
- B.
Amyklaion
- C.
Middle of Sparta
- D.
Pylos
Correct Answer
B. AmyklaionExplanation
The Hyakinthia was held in Amyklaion.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The Gymnopaedia was the festival of what?
- A.
The god Apollo
- B.
The Harvest
- C.
Unarmed Dancing
- D.
Spartas Foundation
Correct Answer
C. Unarmed DancingExplanation
The Gymnopaedia was a festival dedicated to unarmed dancing. This festival was held in ancient Sparta and involved young men performing various dance routines without any weapons. It was an important cultural event in Sparta, showcasing the physical prowess and discipline of its citizens. The festival was also believed to have religious significance, as it was dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of music, poetry, and dance.Rate this question:
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- 12.
When was the original temple of Artemis Orthia built?
- A.
734BC
- B.
580BC
- C.
230BC
- D.
700BC
Correct Answer
D. 700BCExplanation
The original temple of Artemis Orthia was built in 700BC.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which Historian was an Athenian Soldier?
- A.
Aristotle
- B.
Xenophon
- C.
Herodotus
- D.
Pausanius
Correct Answer
B. XenophonExplanation
Xenophon was an Athenian soldier and historian. He is known for his writings on various subjects, including his account of the expedition of the Ten Thousand, in which he participated as a soldier. His work provides valuable insights into the military and political events of ancient Greece. Aristotle, Herodotus, and Pausanius were also historians, but they were not Athenian soldiers.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What was a symposia?
- A.
Banquet
- B.
Hunting trip
- C.
Music performance
- D.
Dance
Correct Answer
A. BanquetExplanation
A symposia refers to a banquet, which is a formal meal where a large number of people gather to eat and socialize. It is a social event where attendees enjoy a variety of food and drinks while engaging in conversation and entertainment. The word "symposia" is derived from the Greek word "symposion," which means drinking together. Therefore, a symposia is associated with feasting and merriment, making the answer "banquet" the correct choice.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Spartan soldiers wore a purple/red battle cloak called a what?
- A.
Syssitia
- B.
Perioikoi
- C.
Peplos
- D.
Phoinikis
Correct Answer
D. PhoinikisExplanation
The correct answer is phoinikis. Spartan soldiers wore a purple/red battle cloak called a phoinikis.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The black broth eaten by the Spartans contained what three ingredients?
- A.
Pork, oil, blood
- B.
Pork, vinegar, blood
- C.
Blood, vinegar, beef
- D.
Boar, water, blood
Correct Answer
B. Pork, vinegar, bloodExplanation
The black broth eaten by the Spartans contained pork, vinegar, and blood. This was a staple dish in Spartan cuisine and was known for its simplicity and high nutritional value. Pork provided protein and fat, vinegar added flavor and acidity, and blood was a source of iron. This combination of ingredients was believed to provide strength and endurance to the Spartan warriors.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What was bride capture?
- A.
Throwing the bride off a mountain top
- B.
Stealthily visiting the bride for sex
- C.
Wedding night where the bride and groom would see each other
- D.
Shaving the brides head and dressing her like a boy
Correct Answer
D. Shaving the brides head and dressing her like a boyExplanation
Bride capture refers to the practice of shaving the bride's head and dressing her like a boy. This was done as a way to disguise the bride and prevent her from being recognized by rival clans or groups who may try to capture or harm her. It was a way to protect the bride and ensure her safety during the wedding ceremony and festivities.Rate this question:
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- 18.
When did the Dorians migrate to the Peloponnese?
- A.
897BC
- B.
9th century
- C.
1100BC
- D.
1000BC
Correct Answer
C. 1100BCExplanation
The Dorians migrated to the Peloponnese around 1100BC. This is supported by historical evidence and archaeological findings. The Dorians were a Greek-speaking people who invaded and settled in the region during the Late Bronze Age. Their migration marked a significant shift in the political and cultural landscape of the Peloponnese.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What were the Partheniai?
- A.
Illegitimate children of Spartan and Helot women
- B.
Non-Spartans who participated in the agoge but didn't become citizens
- C.
Olivia Cottam
- D.
Freed Helots
Correct Answer
A. Illegitimate children of Spartan and Helot womenExplanation
The Partheniai were illegitimate children born from relationships between Spartan men and Helot women. In Spartan society, marriage between Spartans and Helots was not allowed, so these children were considered illegitimate. Despite their parentage, the Partheniai were not granted full Spartan citizenship and were therefore not considered true Spartans.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The Ekklesia comprised all males over what age?
Correct Answer
30, thirtyExplanation
The Ekklesia comprised all males over the age of 30. This means that only men who were 30 years old or older were included in the Ekklesia.Rate this question:
- 21.
There are three MAIN parts of the Great Rhetra, which of the following IS NOT a main part?
- A.
Dual Kingship
- B.
Women exercised to produce healthy babies
- C.
Gerousia
- D.
Ekklesia
Correct Answer
B. Women exercised to produce healthy babiesExplanation
The Great Rhetra is a document that outlines the political and social system of ancient Sparta. It consists of three main parts: Dual Kingship, Gerousia (council of elders), and Ekklesia (assembly of citizens). These three components were crucial in the governance of Sparta. However, the idea of women exercising to produce healthy babies is not mentioned as one of the main parts of the Great Rhetra. This suggests that while the role of women in Sparta was important for ensuring the health of future generations, it was not considered a central aspect of the political system outlined in the Great Rhetra.Rate this question:
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- 22.
By the 4th century BC the size of the army was probably no more than 4000, how many of these were Spartiates?
- A.
4
- B.
2,000
- C.
1,000
- D.
2,500
Correct Answer
C. 1,000Explanation
The correct answer is 1,000. This suggests that out of the total army size of 4,000, only 1,000 were Spartiates. Spartiates were the full citizens of Sparta and were known for their military training and prowess. This indicates that Spartiates made up a significant portion of the army, but they were not the majority. The remaining 3,000 soldiers were likely made up of other groups such as perioikoi (free non-citizen inhabitants of Sparta) and helots (state-owned serfs).Rate this question:
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- 23.
Atremis Orthia was the protectress of childbirth
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Artemis Orthia being the protectress of childbirth means that she was believed to have the power to ensure safe and successful deliveries for women. In Greek mythology, Artemis was associated with fertility and childbirth, and she was often invoked by women in labor or those hoping to conceive. As the protectress of childbirth, Artemis Orthia would have been seen as a deity who could provide assistance and protection during the vulnerable and critical time of giving birth. Therefore, the statement "Artemis Orthia was the protectress of childbirth" is true.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The Hoplite protective corselet of leather and glued linen was known as which of the following?
- A.
Dory
- B.
Aspida
- C.
Kopis
- D.
Cuirass
Correct Answer
D. CuirassExplanation
The Hoplite protective corselet made of leather and glued linen is known as a cuirass. The cuirass provided protection to the chest and torso of the Hoplite warrior, serving as a vital piece of armor in ancient Greek warfare. It was designed to absorb and distribute the impact of blows, providing essential defense on the battlefield.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What was the Ekklesia?
- A.
Warriors' assembly
- B.
Council of elders
- C.
Magistrates
- D.
Leaders of the Spartan tribes
Correct Answer
A. Warriors' assemblyExplanation
The Ekklesia refers to the warriors' assembly in ancient Greece. It was a gathering of male citizens who were eligible for military service. They would meet regularly to discuss and make decisions on matters related to war, defense, and other important issues. This assembly played a crucial role in the military and political affairs of the city-state, making it an appropriate answer for the question.Rate this question:
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- 26.
How many men were part of a syssitia?
- A.
20
- B.
12
- C.
10
- D.
15
Correct Answer
D. 15Explanation
A syssitia was a dining club in ancient Greece where men gathered to eat and socialize. The question asks how many men were part of a syssitia, and the correct answer is 15. This suggests that a syssitia typically consisted of 15 men.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which Spartan location contained the throne of Apollo?
- A.
Menelaion
- B.
Amyklae
- C.
Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia
- D.
Mount Taygetus
Correct Answer
B. AmyklaeExplanation
Amyklae is the correct answer because it was the location that contained the throne of Apollo. The Menelaion was a shrine dedicated to Menelaus and Helen, the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia was a religious site dedicated to Artemis, and Mount Taygetus was a mountain range in Sparta. Therefore, Amyklae is the only location mentioned that is associated with the throne of Apollo.Rate this question:
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- 28.
From what hero did the Spartan kings claim descent?
- A.
The Dioskouri
- B.
Herakles
- C.
Menelaos
- D.
Lycurgus
Correct Answer
B. HeraklesExplanation
The Spartan kings claimed descent from Herakles. Herakles, also known as Hercules, was a legendary hero in Greek mythology. He was renowned for his incredible strength and his twelve labors. The Spartan kings believed that they were direct descendants of Herakles, which gave them a sense of divine lineage and legitimacy to rule. This claim of descent from such a revered hero helped to solidify their authority and command respect from their subjects.Rate this question:
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- 29.
What year did the battle of Leuctra take place?
- A.
700 BC
- B.
371 BC
- C.
300 BC
- D.
650 BC
Correct Answer
B. 371 BCExplanation
The Battle of Leuctra took place in 371 BC. This battle was fought between the Theban army, led by Epaminondas, and the Spartan army, led by King Cleombrotus. The Thebans achieved a decisive victory, which marked a turning point in Greek military history. This battle is significant because it shattered the reputation of Spartan invincibility and allowed Thebes to rise as a dominant power in Greece.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The Helots provided their masters with 70% of what they produced
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because the Helots did not provide their masters with 70% of what they produced. In ancient Sparta, the Helots were a class of serfs who were bound to the land and worked for the Spartan citizens. They were required to give a portion of their agricultural produce to their masters, but the exact percentage varied and was not fixed at 70%.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The black broth Spartans ate was called zamos
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true. The black broth that Spartans ate was indeed called zamos. This broth was a staple in the Spartan diet and was made from boiled pork, vinegar, and blood. It was known for its simple and plain taste, reflecting the Spartan values of simplicity and discipline. The Spartans believed that consuming this broth would make them tough and resilient, preparing them for the challenges of warfare.Rate this question:
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- 32.
What year did the Battle of Thermopylae take place?
- A.
371 BC
- B.
400 BC
- C.
470 BC
- D.
480 BC
Correct Answer
D. 480 BCExplanation
The Battle of Thermopylae took place in 480 BC. This battle was fought between an alliance of Greek city-states, led by King Leonidas I of Sparta, and the Persian Empire, led by King Xerxes I. The battle is famous for the heroic defense of the Greeks against overwhelming Persian forces. Despite ultimately losing the battle, the Greeks inflicted heavy casualties on the Persians and delayed their advance, allowing for the eventual Greek victory in the Greco-Persian Wars.Rate this question:
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- 33.
How were women able to own land?
- A.
If there was no male heir
- B.
If they were born wealthy
- C.
If they were the eldest child
- D.
If they wanted it
Correct Answer
A. If there was no male heirExplanation
Women were able to own land if there was no male heir because in many societies, the inheritance of land was traditionally passed down to male heirs. However, in cases where there was no male heir available, women were given the opportunity to inherit and own land. This was often seen as a necessity to ensure that the land remained within the family or clan, even if there were no eligible male heirs.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Kings had to eat in the syssitia
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In ancient Greece, the syssitia were communal dining halls where Spartan kings and other citizens had to eat their meals. This practice was part of the Spartan social and political system, emphasizing equality and solidarity among the ruling class and citizens. The kings were not exempt from this communal dining tradition and were required to eat in the syssitia. Therefore, the statement that kings had to eat in the syssitia is true.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Women mourned when their husbands died at war
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Women did mourn when their husbands died at war. This statement is historically accurate, as throughout history, women have grieved and mourned the loss of their husbands who died in wars. Therefore, the correct answer should be True, not False.Rate this question:
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- 36.
What was the currency used by Spartiates?
- A.
Iron bars
- B.
Gold and silver coins
- C.
Sticks
- D.
Had none
Correct Answer
A. Iron barsExplanation
The currency used by Spartiates was iron bars. This form of currency was known as "iron spits" or "obols" and was used for trade and commerce within the Spartan society. Iron was considered valuable in Sparta, and its use as currency helped to maintain the Spartan focus on military training and discipline. Iron bars were standardized in weight and were used to measure the value of goods and services in the city-state.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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