Greek Epics: Clash of the Titans

We have learned in class that one of the purposes of the Greek epics was to show the heroism of man and how he could perform incredible acts of bravery with little help from the gods. Even when gods provide advice or weapons, the acts must be committed by humans in the end. The epics showed how Greeks valued man, deeds, and his spirit. Although, the Greeks worshipped the gods, we see the emergence of the worship of man as well.

How do you see this reflected in the movie viewed in class, Clash of the Titans (2010)? When forming your answer make sure to address the following:

1. The purpose of epics
2.  How the purpose of epics are reflected in the movie
3.  Two details to support your answer
4.  Convey how Greece, given it is the "Cradle of Western Civilization", can be said to begin the worship of man. ***Clue: cultural diffusion*** Give at least one reason to support your answer.

This is due Wednesday, December 14, 2016. Make sure to have separate paragraphs. Use your writing skills, creative language, and proofread. This needs to be posted by 5:00 p.m. or you will receive an automatic 40% reduction.

The Epic of Gilgamesh

You have read the epic of Gilgamesh. Now it is time to analyze the epic and apply your knowledge to what you know about the Mesopotamian civilization. Answer the questions you received in class in paragraph form. Make sure to include details and examples from the epic to support your analysis. Make sure to use your notes from class. This is due by Monday, October 31, 2016. All responses must be posted by 8:00 am on Monday or it will receive an automatic 40% reduction. Have fun with Gilgamesh and Enkidu!

Shi Huangdi and Chinese Philosophy

We have been learning about the Ancient Chinese Empire. There were several emperors and philosophers who influenced the political, social, and cultural landscape of ancient China. One of these emperors was "The First Emperor", Shi Huangdi. Use the painting below, your foldable, and your notes to complete a written response. ALSO, respond to two of your classmates' comments. Reflect on whether you agree or disagree with their comment and tell why or why not.

In two paragraphs (8-10 compound, complex sentences), analyze the following painting that depicts the Qin dynasty during Shi Huangdi's rule. Describe what is happening in this picture and how it connects to what you know occurred during Shi Huangdi's reign. We know Shi Huangdi was not a fan of Confucianism. How does what is being shown in this picture support that claim? Use details from the picture and your notes to support your statement. Out of the other two Chinese philosophies, Taoism and Legalism, which philosophy would you infer that Shi Huangdi followed? Use details from the painting and your notes to support your answer. Remember to use examples.

REMINDER: Answer each part of the question. Your grade be based on your written paragraphs as well as your written responses to your classmates' paragraphs. This is due April 4, 2016 at 8:00 a.m. Anything posted after this time will not receive full credit.

Analyze the Paintings: Roman vs. Byzantine Empire Emperors

You have seen the bottom picture below when we first began the unit on Rome. Now that we have finished the Byzantine Empire, compare and contrast these two paintings. Both are depictions of emperors.  Based on the paintings, what would you infer about the values of the Roman and Byzantine empires?  What is the role of the emperor?  What is the role of religion?  Use the information you know about the Roman and Byzantine Empires to draw conclusions based on the paintings.  Write your answer down on an index card. 

8C - Basil the Bulgar Slayer

In class we are learning about the Byzantine empire and its glorious history. This includes many men and women and who achieved great feats and held beliefs that made this empire memorable during its day. One such was Basil the II, known as an emperor who ruled over the "Golden Age" of the Byzantine Empire. 

Analyze the following painting. Who are the people being represented in the painting? Why would the artist show them in the painting? What is the message the artist is sending in this piece of art? How does it reflect the culture of the time period?

This is due by Monday, 8:00 a.m. All posts after this time will be considered late and will only receive, at the most, half credit.

Was Alexander the Great REALLY Great?

 

We learned in class about the many aspects of Alexander the Great's personality.  Pretend you are one of his loyal subjects back in Macedonia.  You know that he has led his army over many distances fighting to extend his empire.  However, you also know he has failed to conquer India and has now turned around to come home. 

 

Write a letter to Alexander telling him what kind of king you believe he is. Take into account his accomplishments and even his shortcomings. However, also keep in mind what makes us all human.  How would you feel about him as a leader after hearing about his many triumphs but also some of the actions he has taken while during his war campaign.  Your letter must have the following:

• Must be typed, size 12, Times New Roman
• Must contain this picture above (many of you received it in class)
• You must have this on some type of construction or colored paper so it is visually attractive.
• Must address Alexander
• Must refer to at least three of his actions taken, good or bad
• STAY IN CHARACTER!!! Keep in mind the language and how you would address a king.

This will be due Tuesday, January 5, 2016.  It is worth 125 Project points.

8th Grade: CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE: WHAT IS IT?

"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Socialist.  Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Trade Unionist.  Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew.  Then they came for me - and there was no one left to speak for me."
 ---Martin Niemoller, Christian Pastor and Theologian in Nazi Germany


In the news today we see instances of protest against unjust laws.  Whether we agree with the forms the protests take, these are examples of "civil disobedience".  Take into consideration what you have been learning in Ms. Hall's class, ask yourself the question:  would civil disobedience have made a difference in Nazi Germany?  Using the quote above, address the following questions in a two well-written paragraphs (8-10 compound, complex sentences!):

• What do you think Martin Niemoller meant by this quote?
• Do you think that he regrets that he did not commit "civil disobedience"?  Why or why not?
• Do you believe civil disobedience have changed the outcome of what happened to the Jews in Nazi Germany?  Give two reasons to support your answer.
• Does civil disobedience have a place in society?  Support your answer with two details.

Post your answer to this blog in the "Comments" section.  Make sure to sign in first, or to be on the safe side, "copy" your response first before posting it in case it does not post the first time.

Make sure to support your answers, explain your points, and check for grammar.  This will count as a grade for Mrs. Yancie's and Ms. Hall's class.

Martin Niemoller