The Temple of Zeus at Olympia, Heroes, and Athletes

Temple of Zeus

A famous temple in Olympia, Greece, dedicated to Zeus, filled with mythological sculptures.

Hubris

Excessive pride or self-confidence, traditionally warned against in Greek culture.

Herakles

A super-strong Greek hero known for completing twelve impossible tasks, symbolizing strength and glory.

Centauromachy

The myth involving a battle between the Lapiths and the Centaurs, symbolizing self-control and civilization.

Pelops

A mythological figure who wins a chariot race to marry Hippodameia, either by divine favor or cheating.

Divine Favor Version

The interpretation of Pelops's victory in the chariot race as due to help from the gods, rather than cheating.

Zanes

Statues built at Olympia to shame cheaters, reflecting the cultural emphasis on fair play.

Pederasty

A social practice in ancient Greece where older men mentored younger men, often linked to athletic training.

Moral Role Models in Stone

The concept that sculptures in the Temple of Zeus served as moral examples for athletes to aspire to.

Olympic Ideals

The values of hard training, nobility, and the potential for greatness that athletes aimed to embody.