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

Religion and the City: Temples: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on Religion and the City: Temples.

10 questions29 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

In Roman religion, the Augures (Augurs) performed their duties near temples. What was their primary function?

Question 2

1 mark

The Parthenon contains a double frieze in some areas, including the famous Ionic frieze. Which specific event is generally believed to be depicted on this Ionic frieze, representing the religious life of the city?

Question 3

1 mark

Why was the altar in a Greek sanctuary like the Altis at Olympia positioned in the open air rather than inside the temple?

Question 4

1 mark

When comparing the Greek Hiereus (priest) to the Roman Pontifex, which statement most accurately reflects their different roles within their respective city-states?

Question 5

1 mark

What was the significance of the opisthodomos in a temple like the Parthenon?

Question 6

3 marks

Explain the specific role of the mantis during a Greek animal sacrifice and why their presence was essential for the city's religious success.

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Question 7

5 marks

In the context of Roman religious officials, distinguish between the specific methods of divination used by an augur and a haruspex during state consultation.

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Question 8

3 marks

Identify two key differences between the typical layout or positioning of a Roman temple, such as the Temple of Portunus, compared to a Greek temple like the Parthenon.

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Question 9

5 marks

Analyze the physical layout and religious function of the Temple of Zeus at Olympia.

(a) Describe three specific architectural features of the temple's layout and explain how these features served the needs of worshippers or the hiereus (priest).
(b) Explain the significance of the cult statue located within the naos of this temple and how its presence defined the sacred space.

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Question 10

8 marks

The evolution of temple architecture reflects changing religious priorities and engineering capabilities in the Classical world.

(a) Identify two traditional Greek architectural elements found in the Temple of Fortuna Virilis (Portunus) and explain how these contrast with its typically Roman features, such as the podium.
(b) Compare the interior layout of the Pantheon in Rome with the Parthenon in Athens. How did the inclusion of the oculus and the dome in the Pantheon create a different experience for the worshipper compared to the traditional Greek naos?
(c) Discuss the role of the altar in both Greek and Roman worship, specifically explaining why it was positioned outside the main temple building.

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