Greeks and barbarians: polarities and stereotypes: Practice Questions

In the context of the Invention of the Barbarian, which of the following best describes the original linguistic meaning of the term barbaros used by the Greeks in the pre-Classical period?

In Herodotus’ Histories, which specific action taken by Xerxes during the crossing of the Hellespont is portrayed as an example of tyrannical and quasi-godlike hubris, setting him apart from Greek values of moderation?

In Herodotus 1.131-140, which of the following is identified as a key Persian custom that contrasts with Greek religious practice, thereby contributing to the 'othering' of the Persians?

In the context of the Invention of the Barbarian, which term describes the process where a Greek polis would submit to Persian authority by giving tokens of earth and water?

According to Herodotus, which aspect of Persian culture was most distinctly 'un-Greek' in its treatment of their monarch, often involves prostration or proskynesis?

In the context of pre-Classical Greek thought, what was the primary linguistic origin of the term barbaros?

Describe how the Apadana reliefs at Persepolis offer a different perspective on the relationship between the Persian King and his subjects compared to the Greek portrayal of Persian tyranny.

Compare the portrayal of Xerxes in Aeschylus’ The Persians with the historical reality of the Achaemenid political system, focusing on the tension between Greek hubris and Persian imperial ideology.

Greek Identity and Unity

The concept of 'Greekness' was a complex and often fluid idea during the 5th century BC. Using your knowledge of the Invention of the Barbarian, answer the following questions:

(a) Identify and explain three cultural factors that Herodotus identifies in The Histories (8.144) as defining 'Greekness' (to Hellenikon). (3 points)
(b) Briefly explain how the autonomy of individual poleis (cities) could create divisions within this shared identity, specifically in the context of the Persian Wars. (2 points)

Binary Oppositions and Gender in Euripides' Medea

In the Greek world view, the barbarian was often defined through a series of binary oppositions. Discuss how Euripides uses these oppositions to characterise Medea.

(a) Explain how the binaries of Greek/Foreigner and Man/Woman are combined in the character of Medea to heighten the sense of 'otherness' and danger for an Athenian audience. (3 points)
(b) To what extent does Medea's status as a 'barbarian' explain her use of pharmaka (poison/magic) and her ultimate actions in the play? (2 points)
(c) How might the historical context of the Persian Wars have influenced the audience’s reception of a powerful, dangerous female barbarian on stage? (2 points)