Knowledge of The Olympic Games

Knowledge of The Olympic Games

Ancient Olympic Games

• Explore the origins of the Olympic Games, started in Olympia as a festival in honour of Zeus.
• Learn about the events that made up the Games, including chariot-racing, running, jumping, discus throwing, and wrestling.
• Understand the level of preparation and discipline required by ancient athletes for these events.

Significance and Role in Greek Society

• Delve into the religious significance of the Olympic Games, tied to worship of Zeus and other Greek gods and goddesses.
• Understand the inter-city rivalry and competition that the Games fostered among different Greek city-states.
• Familiarise yourself with the peace treaty called the Olympic Truce, designed to ensure safe travel for competitors and spectators.

The Prize and Athletes

• Discover that unlike modern competitions, where medals are awarded, winners in the ancient Games received a crown of olive leaves.
• Know that the successful athletes at the Olympic Games enjoyed substantial fame and honour in their home cities.
• Learn about the strict amateurism, excluding professional athletes and even actors from participating.

Olympic Games and Greek Literature

• Examine how the Olympic Games feature in Greek literature and philosophy, highlighting the key role of physical training and competition in Greek culture.
• Explore the literary works & historical accounts including Pindar’s victory odes, which celebrated victorious athletes.

Evolution of the Games

• Discover the drastic changes and eventual cessation of the Games with the rise of the Roman Empire.
• Learn about the revival of the Olympic Games in modern times and how it was inspired by the ancient tradition.