DemigodsDemigods are half mortal and have god. In ancient times Greeks believed that their gods would come down to earth and bear a child with a mortal. The children were then called demigods and later became great heroes. These heroes had legends about them. For Achilles the legend was that his mother, the greek goddess Thetis, dipped him in the river Styx as a baby and held him by his heel, which made him immortal all over his body except for his heel. Demigods were described as the best fighters. Many ancient Greeks received the name of a demigod after completing honorable or amazing things. Some of the descendants of the gods had powers from their Greek bloodline, such as Hercules incredible strength. After death these Demigods were honored with sacrifices and festivals and great pride came if you were a descendent of one of these great heroes.

GREEK GOD PARENTINGAfter these demigod children were born they were usually on their own, unless they were lucky enough to gain their god parents interest. Throughout stories like the Iliad, we see Greek god parents interfering in human affairs, such as whether someone will live or die. The gods would deflect arrows and save someone from death or they would help guide a weapon to kill someone. According to legend they would even appear in battle and fight with a certain side.

Demigods and heroes were a major part of Greek literature. In almost every Greek story or poem their is a demigod, who

eventually saves the day. These stories are still popular, as can be seen in fan favorite Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan. This is a story of young Percy who finds out that

he is the son of Poseidon. He goes on many adventures, all the while fighting various mythological monsters.

Literature

DEMIGODS/HEROES

During Reading: 1. Write down questions that you would

like to discuss In your group or as a class after completing the activities.

2. Underline aspects of a Demigod and a Hero that set them apart from humans.

After Reading Questions: 1. Discuss the following questions as a group and write down your opinion. 2. Then complete the drawing, the instructions are attached.

Do you think it is right for Greek god to intervene in a mortals life and save them from death? Why?

Who would you like your Greek god parent to be? Why?

2. After Reading About Demigods and Heroes, I would like you to draw

yourself as a demigod.