The Lightning Thief & Greek Mythology (2020)

Lesson 22
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ELA

Unit 8

6th Grade

Lesson 22 of 28

Objective


Analyze how the Greek gods use violence to maintain their power.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin D’Aulaire  pp. 132 – 142 — Heracles

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Target Task


You’ve read many myths thus far about the gods punishing those that threaten them or that demonstrate hubris: 

  • Theseus and Minotaur
  • Medusa
  • Prometheus
  • Arachne
  • Heracles

What strategies do the gods use to maintain their power and strength?

Based on your answer to the first question, what can you conclude about the ancient Greeks’ feelings about their gods? In your answer, make sure to:

  • Answer both questions. 
  • Use details from at least two myths from this unit. 

Key Questions


  • p. 132: Why is Hera so wrathful towards Heracles? Explain using details from the text.
  • p. 132: What motivates Heracles to perform ten labors for Eurystheus? 
  • p. 138: In what ways does Hera try to derail Heracles? 
  • Think back to other myths you’ve read. How do the gods try to defeat those that threaten them? 
  • p. 139: Why does Heracles have to complete two more labors for Eurystheus? 
  • p. 142: How does Heracles take Cerberus from the Underworld? 
  • p. 142: How does Zeus punish Heracles for his hubris? What is clever about it? 
  • Why are the gods threatened by mortals? What are they so afraid of losing?

Vocabulary


offspring (132)
dung (135)
atone (132, 142)

Notes


This lesson connects with a unit test and essential question.

Common Core Standards


  • RL.6.3 — Describe how a particular story's or drama's plot unfolds in a series of episodes as well as how the characters respond or change as the plot moves toward a resolution.

Next

Explain how the setting helps to create the mood. 

Lesson 23
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