What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hoursHomework
Be a hero.Class Experience
US Grade 4 - 6
In this end chapter of Theseus' life, we explore the events leading up to his two visits to the Underworld. The story will begin with Theseus marching upon Thebes to bury the heroes who perished during an event called "Seven Against Thebes." Some jerk named Pirithous steals his cattle while away, so we learn of the confrontation of Theseus and Pirithous. After becoming fast friends, Theseus is invited to a wedding where we will go into an event called the "Centauromachy." Here we will learn the fate of a woman turned into a man named Caeneus. After, students will learn of the oath between Theseus and Pirithous to steal away daughters of Zeus. The legend of the birth of Helen, Castor, and Pollux will then be discussed and the kidnapping of Helen by Theseus and Pirithous. Pirithous then leads Theseus into the Underworld to try and abduct the bride of Hades, Persephone. Things don't work out too well. While Theseus is in the underworld, we will learn of the daring rescue of Helen by her twin brothers Castor and Pollux and how they use their unique skills to deadly effect. We then learn of how Hercules ends up saving Theseus, then Theseus short return to the land of the living before he quickly returns to the gates of Hades for eternity. Images and some video may be shared to help bring this story to life and I as the storyteller will use my theatrical background to make the tale memorable. Class sizes are kept small to ensure students are given ample opportunity to interact with the teacher and each other. Students are encouraged to speak freely but take care to not speak over each other.
Learning Goals
Students develop an appreciation of ancient literature and learn about Theseus, Pirithous, Zeus, Leda, Helen, Castor, Pollux, Hades, Persephone, and far more. Etymology of words connected to these stories will be discussed. Information is sourced from Pseudo-Apollodorus' 'Bibliotheca', Euripides' 'Hippolytus', Herodotus' 'Histories', and Plutarch's 'The Parallel Lives.' Further information is sourced from the works including, but no limited to, of Pindar, Sappho, Sophocles, and Homer.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
The main issue in the class is the kidnapping of Helen. Although it being Pirithous' idea and Theseus puts Helen under the care of his mother Aethra till she is of marrying age (gross and will be presented as the criminal act it is), this crime is what puts Theseus into disfavor with the democratized citizens of Athens and leads to him losing his kingship.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Pseudo-Apollodorus' 'Bibliotheca', Hyginus' 'Fabulae', 'Euripides' 'Hippolytus', Herodotus' 'Histories', Plutarch's 'The Parallel Lives'
Teacher expertise and credentials
As a professor at Ukrainian Catholic University and a seasoned educator, I'm passionate about sharing my love of literature and language with students of all ages. My years of experience in the classroom have equipped me with the skills to create engaging and effective learning experiences.
From the mythical realms of Greek mythology to the timeless classics of Shakespeare, I'm dedicated to helping students develop a deep appreciation for storytelling and a strong foundation in language skills.
Let's embark on a literary adventure together and discover the power of words to inspire, educate, and entertain!
Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$22
per classMeets once
55 min
Completed by 13 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-12
1-6 learners per class