Cambridge OCR GCSE (9-1) · Classical Civilisation - J199

The Universal Hero: Heracles/Hercules: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on The Universal Hero: Heracles/Hercules.

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Question 1

1 mark

According to Greek mythology, which of these famous sites did Heracles supposedly found?

Question 2

1 mark

In the account of Hercules and Cacus in the Aeneid, Hercules is initially confused by the lack of tracks. According to the text, what specific physical evidence ultimately revealed the location of the stolen cattle?

Question 3

1 mark

In Ovid's Metamorphoses, Book 9, Hercules battles the river god Achelous for the hand of Deianira. Achelous changes into three different forms. In which form is he finally defeated when Hercules breaks off one of his horns?

Question 4

1 mark

In Metamorphoses Book 9, with which centaur does Hercules fight, eventually leading to his own death through a poisoned shirt?

Question 5

1 mark

In Book 8 of the Aeneid, the cattle of Geryon are stolen. What specific physical evidence did Hercules use to find the animals hidden by Cacus?

Question 6

2 marks

According to the Homeric Hymn to Heracles the Lion Hearted, who is the mother of the hero Heracles?

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Question 7

3 marks

In Virgil's Aeneid, Book 8, why does the monster Cacus steal the cattle of Hercules while the hero is resting near the Tiber?

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Question 8

5 marks

In Ovid's Metamorphoses (Book 9), how does the transition of Hercules from a mortal to a god illustrate the concept of apotheosis, and what role does Jupiter play in this specific transformation?

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Question 9

4 marks

Heracles is often referred to as the 'Universal Hero' due to his widespread influence across both the Greek and Roman worlds. Based on the prescribed material for OCR Classical Civilisation, answer the following questions:

a) Explain the significance of the Homeric Hymn to Heracles in describing his character. Use one specific epithet from the hymn's title in your explanation. (2 points)

b) Identify the specific architectural feature and the location where the 12 Labours of Heracles are visually represented in the prescribed Greek material. (2 points)

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Question 10

5 marks

(a) Briefly explain why Heracles is often referred to as a 'universal hero' in both Greek and Roman contexts.
(b) Describe how the 12 Labours of Heracles are visually represented on the Temple of Zeus at Olympia.
(c) How does the Homeric Hymn to Heracles the Lion Hearted depict the hero's origins and his current state on Olympus?

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