English Test - Greek mythology

What is an allusion?

A reference to a well-known story, person, place, event, or idea—often from mythology, literature, the Bible, or history—to make a comparison or deepen meaning.

Who was Prometheus, and where does the word Promethean come from?

Prometheus was a Greek Titan known for his intelligence, compassion, and bravery.
He loved humanity and wanted to help humans become stronger and more independent.
The term Promethean comes from his name and symbolizes creativity and rebellion.

What did Prometheus do, and how was he punished?

Prometheus stole fire (symbol of knowledge and progress) from Mount Olympus and gave it to humans.
Zeus punished him by chaining him to a rock, where an eagle ate his liver daily.
Despite the suffering, Prometheus never gave up or apologized.

Why is Prometheus considered brave or heroic?

🔥 He challenged Zeus’s authority to help humanity.
🔥 He risked eternal suffering for human progress.
🔥 He showed moral courage—doing what was right, not what was safe.
🔥 He became a symbol of creativity, rebellion, and sacrifice for freedom and knowledge.

What does “Promethean” mean today?

It describes someone who is bold, inventive, and willing to take great risks to bring progress or help others—even if they suffer for it.

Who was Pandora, and what was the origin of the phrase “Pandora’s Box”?

Pandora was the first woman created by the gods.
Zeus ordered her creation to punish humanity after Prometheus stole fire.
The gods gave her many gifts—beauty, charm, and curiosity—and a sealed jar (later called a box).

What happened when Pandora opened the box?

Her curiosity made her open the forbidden box, releasing all the world’s evils—sickness, pain, greed, and death.
She quickly closed it, trapping only Hope inside, showing that even in darkness, hope remains.

What lessons does Pandora’s myth teach?

⚡ The power and danger of curiosity—actions can have big consequences.
⚡ Explains the origin of human suffering.
⚡ Shows that hope never disappears, even after mistakes.
⚡ Warns against temptation but also values human experience.

What does “Pandora’s Box” mean in modern use?

It describes something that seems harmless but causes many unexpected problems when explored.
Also symbolizes curiosity’s double nature—dangerous but essential for growth.

What do Promethean allusions mean in modern writing or media?

They symbolize human ambition, innovation, and sacrifice for progress, but also warn about pride and the danger of “playing God.”

What do Pandora’s Box allusions mean in modern writing or media?

They warn that curiosity and ambition can cause harm, but also show that hope and resilience remain even after disaster.

What happens in the Genesis story of Adam and Eve?

Adam and Eve live in the Garden of Eden and are forbidden to eat from the Tree of Knowledge.
Tempted by the serpent, they eat the forbidden fruit, causing the Fall—the loss of innocence and the start of human suffering.

What do “Eden,” “Forbidden Fruit,” and “The Fall” symbolize?

🌿 Eden = innocence, paradise, perfection before corruption.
🍎 Forbidden Fruit = temptation or desire leading to downfall.
💧 The Fall = loss of innocence or punishment after disobedience.

What do Genesis allusions highlight in modern works?

They show the human struggle between innocence and knowledge, temptation vs. obedience, and the cost of freedom and curiosity.

What do Prometheus, Pandora, and Genesis allusions reveal about humanity?

Theme	What It Says About Humanity	Example
Curiosity & Knowledge	Humans seek knowledge even when it’s risky.	Pandora’s Box
Rebellion & Progress	Breaking limits can advance or destroy.	Prometheus, Frankenstein
Temptation & The Fall	Temptation causes loss of innocence.	Genesis, Eden
Hope & Renewal	Even after mistakes, hope remains.	Pandora’s Box, Eden after the Fall