Western Civ. Reading Final Exam

The "land between rivers" refers to Mesopotamia because it is a region located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Mesopotamia was one of the cradles of civilization and is known for its advanced ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. The fertile land between the rivers allowed for agriculture and the development of complex societies. Mesopotamia was also an important trade and cultural hub in ancient times.

Hieroglyphics, the Egyptian writing system, was a form of picture writing where physical figures represented words or sounds that could be combined to form words. This means that instead of using letters or abstract symbols to represent language, hieroglyphics used images that conveyed meaning. These images could represent specific words or sounds, and by combining them, complex ideas and words could be expressed. This made hieroglyphics a unique and innovative writing system, and it is considered the world's first writing system. It was not the only writing system of the earliest high civilizations, but it was a significant and influential one.

Sargon the Great was aware of the need to centralize authority through appointed officials. This means that he understood the importance of consolidating power and delegating responsibilities to trusted individuals in order to maintain control over his empire. By appointing officials, Sargon ensured that his rule was effectively implemented throughout his territories, allowing for efficient governance and administration. This approach to centralization would have contributed to the stability and success of his reign.

Homer's major epics were the Illiad and Odyssey. These two poems are considered the cornerstone of Western literature and are attributed to Homer, an ancient Greek poet. The Illiad is an epic poem that tells the story of the Trojan War, while the Odyssey follows the adventures of Odysseus as he tries to return home after the war. Both epics are renowned for their rich storytelling, vivid characters, and exploration of themes such as heroism, fate, and the human condition.

Helots were agricultural slaves of the Spartans. The term "helots" refers to a class of unfree individuals who were bound to the land and forced to work for Spartan citizens. They were considered property and were subjected to harsh treatment and exploitation. The Spartans relied on the labor of the helots to support their society and maintain their military dominance. The helots played a crucial role in the agricultural production of Sparta, allowing the Spartan citizens to focus on military training and warfare.

The Paleolithic Age was characterized by significant features such as tool making, the discovery of cooking meat, and the use of fire for protection against dangerous animals. However, scavenging and hunting for food was still necessary during this time period, as it was the primary means of survival.

The Peloponnesian War was a war between the Delian League and the Peloponnesian League. The Delian League, led by Athens, was an alliance of Greek city-states formed to defend against the Persian invasion. The Peloponnesian League, led by Sparta, was a rival alliance of city-states in the Peloponnese region. The war was fought between these two powerful alliances and lasted for nearly three decades, from 431 to 404 BC. It was a conflict over power, influence, and control in ancient Greece.

The oration delivered by Pericles demonstrated Athenian concern for both civic freedom and personal freedom. Pericles emphasized the importance of democracy and the rights of individuals in Athenian society. He highlighted the freedom of speech, the right to participate in public affairs, and the equal treatment of citizens under the law. Additionally, Pericles acknowledged the contributions of slaves to Athenian society, indicating a level of concern for their condition. Therefore, the oration addressed both civic freedom and personal freedom, showing Athenian concern for both.

According to the given information, it is stated that Pharaoh "was a god". This suggests that Pharaoh was believed to possess divine qualities or was considered a deity in ancient Egyptian culture. This belief in the divinity of Pharaohs was a significant aspect of their power and authority, as they were seen as the intermediary between the gods and the people. Therefore, the statement "was a god" accurately reflects the perception of Pharaoh in ancient Egypt.

The pair that is least well matched is Solon-Spartan military leader. Solon was an Athenian statesman and lawmaker, known for his reforms and contributions to the development of democracy in Athens. He was not associated with the Spartan military leadership.

The correct answer is Egyptians and Sumerians. The Egyptians and Sumerians were both early civilizations that emerged around the same time in different regions. The Egyptians developed along the Nile River in Northeast Africa, while the Sumerians settled in Mesopotamia, which is present-day Iraq. Both civilizations made significant contributions to the development of human society, such as the invention of writing systems, the construction of monumental architecture, and the establishment of complex social and political structures. Their achievements laid the foundation for future civilizations and influenced subsequent cultures in the ancient world.

In Mesopotamia, the belief was that the king was chosen by the gods to rule, but he was still accountable to them just like any other person. This means that the king did not possess absolute power and was subject to the will and guidance of the gods. This belief system prevented the king from being seen as an all-powerful ruler, as he had to answer to higher authorities and could not act without consequences.

The Sumerian civilization provided a basis for Mesopotamian civilization. Mesopotamia, located in present-day Iraq, was one of the earliest cradles of civilization. The Sumerians, who lived in southern Mesopotamia, developed many significant cultural and technological advancements, such as the invention of writing (cuneiform), the establishment of city-states, and the development of complex irrigation systems. Their contributions laid the foundation for future civilizations in the region, including the Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians.

Mount Olympus was famous as the home of the Greek gods because according to Greek mythology, it was believed to be the dwelling place of the twelve major gods and goddesses. It was considered a sacred and divine place, where the gods resided and ruled over the mortal world. Mount Olympus was depicted as a majestic and awe-inspiring mountain, symbolizing the power and authority of the gods. It was a central and significant location in Greek mythology, serving as the backdrop for many mythological stories and legends involving the gods and their interactions with humans.

Solon, the Athenian statesman, aimed to balance the interests of both the wealthy aristocrats and the ordinary Athenians in politics. This suggests that he wanted to create a system that would consider the needs and desires of both groups, ensuring a fair representation of their interests in the political decision-making process. By doing so, Solon aimed to promote harmony and stability within Athens, while also preventing any one group from dominating the political landscape.

Cuneiform was found in ancient Sumeria. Sumeria was an ancient civilization located in Mesopotamia, which is present-day southern Iraq. Cuneiform is the earliest known form of writing and was developed by the Sumerians around 3500 BCE. It consisted of wedge-shaped marks made on clay tablets using a stylus. The Sumerians used cuneiform for various purposes, including recording administrative, economic, and religious information. Therefore, the correct answer is Sumeria.

Democritus is the correct answer because he was a Greek philosopher who proposed the atomic theory. He believed that the world was composed of tiny, indivisible particles called atoms. Democritus argued that these atoms were in constant motion and combined to form different substances. His ideas were revolutionary at the time and laid the foundation for modern atomic theory. Parmenides, Thales, and Pythagoras were also ancient Greek philosophers, but they did not specifically speculate about the composition of the world in terms of atoms.

Sappho is the correct answer because she established a school to teach music and singing to well-to-do girls and to prepare them for marriage. This school was known as the "Thiasos," and it was a place where young women could learn the arts and skills necessary for their future roles as wives and mothers. Sappho herself was a renowned poet and musician, known for her lyrical poetry and songs.

The correct answer is "denied the charges". This means that when the authorities in Athens charged Socrates, he refused to accept or admit to the accusations made against him.

Cleisthenes is known as the father of Athenian democracy because he played a crucial role in the establishment of democratic reforms in Athens during the late 6th century BC. He introduced several important democratic principles, such as the creation of a council of representatives, the institution of ostracism, and the reorganization of political districts. Cleisthenes' reforms aimed to give more power and voice to the Athenian citizens, marking a significant shift towards a more inclusive and participatory form of government. His contributions to the development of Athenian democracy solidify his reputation as its father.

Aristophanes was a comic playwright known for his satirical plays. In his works, he often used humor to criticize and mock various aspects of Athenian society, including its statesmen, intellectuals, and governmental policies. Therefore, the answer that correctly describes Aristophanes' approach is "lampooned Athenian statesman, intellectuals, and governmental policies."

The Egyptian belief in the afterlife is well-known for its elaborate rituals and practices, such as pyramid tombs, mummification, and funerary art. These practices were aimed at ensuring a smooth transition into the afterlife and a comfortable existence in the realm of the dead. However, a longing for death is not a feature of Egyptian belief in the afterlife. Instead, they believed in the preservation of life and the continuation of existence in the afterlife.

Plato would have argued against the statement that the adjective "courageous" should only be applied to those who are willing to become child bearers. This goes against Plato's belief that those who possess intellectual pursuits should be rulers, as he believed that courage and other virtues should be valued in all individuals, regardless of their gender or reproductive abilities. Plato emphasized the importance of living an ethical life as citizens of a rational state and believed that in an unjust state, people cannot achieve Socratic wisdom as their souls will reflect the state's wickedness.

Cuneiform is the term used to describe the symbol writing on clay tablets. It was the earliest known form of writing, developed by the ancient Sumerians in Mesopotamia around 3500 BCE. Cuneiform was primarily used for administrative and economic purposes, including keeping records of commercial transactions. The symbols were impressed onto wet clay tablets using a stylus, and once dried, the tablets could be stored and transported easily. Cuneiform played a crucial role in the development of civilization, as it allowed for the recording and preservation of information, facilitating the growth of trade, law, and government.

Zoroastrianism came to be associated with Persian rulers. Zoroastrianism is an ancient Iranian religion that originated in Persia (modern-day Iran). It was founded by the prophet Zoroaster and became the dominant religion in Persia during the Achaemenid Empire. Persian rulers, such as Cyrus the Great and Darius the Great, embraced Zoroastrianism and promoted it as the state religion. Zoroastrianism emphasizes the worship of Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity, and promotes concepts such as good versus evil, moral responsibility, and the afterlife.

Anaximander's work with the Ionian school of philosophy can be described by the statement "he argues that Nature was lawful." This means that Anaximander believed that there were natural laws or principles that governed the workings of the universe. He sought to understand and explain the natural world through rational and systematic thinking, rather than attributing natural phenomena to the actions of gods or mythical beings. This perspective was a departure from earlier beliefs that attributed natural events to the whims of gods or other supernatural forces. Anaximander's emphasis on natural laws laid the foundation for scientific inquiry and the development of Western philosophy.

Sappho is the correct answer because she is known for writing poems of friendship and love. She was a Greek lyric poet who lived in the 6th century BC and is famous for her emotional and passionate poetry, often expressing themes of love, desire, and companionship. Her poems were primarily dedicated to her close circle of female friends, highlighting the importance of friendship in her work. Sappho's poetry has had a significant influence on Western literature and is highly regarded for its intimate and personal expression of emotions.

Thespis may be remembered as the first actor in history because he engaged in dialogue. This suggests that Thespis was the first to step away from the traditional choral performances and introduce individual characters who spoke to each other on stage. This innovation in ancient Greek theater marked a significant shift in the development of acting and paved the way for future actors to engage in dialogue-driven performances.

Zoroaster is the correct answer because he is known as the founder of Zoroastrianism, a dualistic religion that originated in the Near East. Zoroastrianism is characterized by the belief in a constant battle between good and evil forces, with Zoroaster being the prophet who received divine revelations and teachings. This religion had a significant influence on the development of many later religious and philosophical traditions in the region.

The Greek contribution to Western Civilization was the application of reason to understanding the meaning of life. The ancient Greeks valued rational thinking and sought to explore and understand the world around them through logic and critical thinking. This approach, known as philosophy, influenced many aspects of Western culture and laid the foundation for scientific inquiry, ethics, and political thought. By emphasizing reason, the Greeks encouraged the pursuit of knowledge and the development of intellectual discourse, which continues to shape our understanding of the world today.

Hippocrates believed that epilepsy was not a sacred or divine condition. He did not attribute the cause of epilepsy to any supernatural or divine origins. Instead, he approached epilepsy as a medical condition that could be understood and treated through scientific means. This perspective challenged the prevailing belief at the time that epilepsy was a result of divine intervention or possession. By denying the sacred or divine nature of epilepsy, Hippocrates paved the way for a more rational and scientific understanding of the condition.

The correct answer is the Epic of Gilgamesh. The Epic of Gilgamesh is considered the "finest work of Mesopotamian literature" because it is one of the oldest surviving works of literature in the world. It tells the story of Gilgamesh, a legendary king of Uruk, and his adventures and quest for immortality. The epic explores themes of friendship, mortality, and the search for meaning in life. It is written in poetic form and offers valuable insights into ancient Mesopotamian culture, beliefs, and values.

Sophrosyne is a Greek term that represents the idea of moderation and self-discipline. It refers to the ability to maintain a balanced and controlled mindset, avoiding extremes and excesses. This concept emphasizes the importance of practicing self-restraint, self-control, and temperance in various aspects of life. It encourages individuals to find a middle ground and avoid indulging in excessive behaviors or emotions. By embodying sophrosyne, one can achieve a state of equilibrium and harmony, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Aristotle believed that universal ideas and forms could only be accessed through the study of the particular. This means that he emphasized the importance of studying specific objects and events in order to understand the general principles and concepts that underlie them. In contrast to Plato, who believed that knowledge of the forms could be attained through reason and contemplation, Aristotle believed that knowledge had to be grounded in empirical observation and analysis of the physical world. This approach is known as empiricism, and it was a key aspect of Aristotle's philosophy.

The temple administration in Mesopotamian civilization had various functions, such as collecting rents, providing employment for many individuals, and employing scribes to keep records. However, one function that they did not have was providing storage for weapons. This means that while they may have had other responsibilities, storing weapons was not one of them.

The Egyptians were known for their pyramid building, superb engineering skills, and the invention of the solar calendar. However, there is no evidence or historical records to suggest that they invented the lunar calendar. The lunar calendar was used by various ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians and the Chinese, but not by the Egyptians.

The correct answer is Sparta because the Peloponnesian League was an alliance of city-states in ancient Greece, and Sparta was the dominant city-state and leader of this league. Sparta was known for its military prowess and its role in the Peloponnesian War against Athens. The league was formed as a counterbalance to Athenian power and influence, and Sparta played a central role in coordinating the military and political affairs of the member states.

The early inhabitants of the area around Sparta became known as helots. The term "helot" refers to the enslaved population in ancient Sparta who were conquered by the Spartans and forced into servitude. The helots were a crucial part of the Spartan economy and society, providing labor and agricultural production. They were treated as property and had limited rights, but they also played a significant role in Spartan military efforts as they were trained as slave-warriors.

Macedonia emerged as a first-rate power in the fourth century BC. Under the leadership of Philip II, Macedonia expanded its territory and built a strong and professional army. Philip's son, Alexander the Great, further expanded the empire, conquering vast territories and establishing one of the largest empires in history. This period is known as the Hellenistic period, and Macedonia played a significant role in spreading Greek culture and influence throughout the ancient world.

Sophocles is the correct answer because he believed that individuals should shape their character in the way a sculptor shapes a form. This belief is reflected in his plays, where characters are often faced with moral dilemmas and must make choices that define their character. Sophocles' works explore themes of personal responsibility, fate, and the consequences of one's actions, emphasizing the importance of shaping one's character through conscious decision-making.

Religion is referred to as the central force in "primary" civilizations. This means that religion played a crucial role in shaping and organizing these early civilizations. Religion provided a framework for social and cultural practices, moral values, and political systems. It often served as a unifying force, bringing people together and providing a sense of identity and purpose. Additionally, religion influenced various aspects of life, including governance, law, and education. Therefore, religion can be seen as the central force that guided and influenced the development of these early civilizations.

The Hittites are best associated with the early development of iron. The Hittites were an ancient civilization that emerged in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) around the 18th century BCE. They are known for their advanced knowledge and use of iron, which gave them a significant advantage in warfare and trade. The Hittites were among the first civilizations to master the techniques of ironworking and were able to produce stronger and more durable weapons and tools compared to those made of bronze. Their mastery of iron technology played a crucial role in their military dominance and cultural influence in the ancient Near East.

Ashurbanipal can be credited with maintaining a large library of clay tablets. This is because Ashurbanipal was known for his extensive collection of written works, which included various subjects such as literature, history, and astronomy. The library contained over 30,000 clay tablets, making it one of the largest and most important libraries of its time. Ashurbanipal's dedication to preserving and expanding knowledge through the maintenance of this library demonstrates his commitment to education and the dissemination of information in ancient Mesopotamia.

The term satrap refers to a governor in the Persian Empire. In ancient Persia, the empire was divided into provinces, and each province was governed by a satrap. The satraps were appointed by the Persian king and were responsible for maintaining order, collecting taxes, and enforcing the king's laws in their respective provinces. They held significant power and were accountable to the king. This system of governance helped the Persian Empire maintain control over its vast territories.

The correct answer is 1400-1230 BC. The Mycenaean civilization thrived during this time period, which is commonly referred to as the Late Bronze Age. This was a time of significant cultural and economic development in ancient Greece, characterized by the rise of powerful city-states and the construction of monumental palaces and fortifications. The Mycenaeans were known for their advanced architecture, pottery, and military prowess, and their civilization reached its peak during the 14th and 13th centuries BC.

The Athenian conception of excellence is best associated with the full development and enrichment of the human personality. This is because the Athenians believed that true excellence could only be achieved through the cultivation of all aspects of a person's being, including their physical, mental, and moral attributes. They believed that individuals should strive to become well-rounded and virtuous citizens who contribute to the betterment of society. This idea of excellence was deeply rooted in the Athenian democratic ideals of active participation in civic affairs and the pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement.

Akhenaton is most associated with promoting monotheistic ideas. He was an Egyptian pharaoh who introduced the worship of a single god, the Aten, and attempted to suppress the worship of other deities. Akhenaton's religious reforms were radical for their time and had a significant impact on Egyptian society and culture. His reign marked a departure from the traditional polytheistic beliefs and established a brief period of monotheism in ancient Egypt.

The Greek term "arete" refers to excellence. In ancient Greek culture, arete was highly valued and represented the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life, including moral and intellectual virtues. It encompassed the idea of striving for the highest potential and achieving greatness in one's actions and character. Arete was seen as a noble quality that distinguished individuals who displayed exceptional skill, virtue, and moral integrity. Thus, the term "excellence" accurately captures the meaning of arete in Greek philosophy and society.

During the era of the Delian League, Athens emerged as the dominant power and took advantage of its position by exerting control over other Greek states. This domination involved exploiting and mistreating these states. Additionally, the League imposed a hefty fine on any member state that wished to withdraw, making it difficult for them to break free from Athens' control. The unequal distribution of funds from the League treasury further reinforced Athens' power and influence, leading to an increase in admiration and loyalty towards Athens among the Greeks.

Thucydides rejected the idea that the gods interfere in History. This means that he did not believe that divine intervention played a role in determining the outcome of the Peloponnesian Wars. Instead, he likely believed that the outcome was determined by human actions and decisions rather than the influence of the gods.