Theseus: The Minotaur and the Labyrinth Study Questions

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Bring on the tough stuff - there's not just one right answer.

1. Is Theseus responsible for his father's death? Explain your answer.
2. Read the stories of Theseus's early adventures. Compare and contrast Theseus in those stories to the more mature Theseus. How does he change over time?
3. What do you think makes a person heroic?
4. Why does King Minos demand that young Athenians be sacrificed to the Minotaur? Is he right or wrong in making this demand? Explain your answer.
5. Pick a hero from a modern adventure movie. Superheroes, action stars, boy wizards... any will do. Compare and contrast the hero to Theseus.
6. Does the Minotaur deserve to die? Why, or why not?
7. How does the story of Theseus and Ariadne reflect the role of women in ancient Greek society?
8. Since Theseus was the biggest hero of Athens, what do you think that says about ancient Athenian culture? What do they value? Who do they strive to be like? What traits do they admire?
9. Do you think there's ever a time when Theseus does something un-heroic? Explain your answer.
10. Who is the biggest hero in your life? How does that person compare to Theseus?
11. Compare and contrast Theseus to one of his fellow Greek heroes like Heracles, Perseus, or Jason.