Athena, Apollo, Hera and More
Sixth graders bring Greek mythology to life with costumed presentations.
Sixth graders brought their study of Greek mythology to life during their recent “Dinner with the Gods.” Each sixth grader presented a biography of a well-known Greek god, goddess or mythological character while dressed in costume, followed by a feast.
The Dinner with the Gods was the culmination of the sixth graders’ month-long study of D’Aulaire’s Greek Myths. Each student processed into the classroom for her presentation on her god or goddess to the class. Many teachers and upper school students attended as well, to hear the presentations, admire the costumes and sample the feast fare. Appollo, Hera, Posideon and the other Olympians were all in attendance at the event, along with some of their most well-known children.
In addition to creating a costume from found items (students were instructed not to buy outfits), each sixth grader also prepared a symbolic food or drink and a goblet to represent her immortal personality. One student dressed as Ares, god of war, and brought red fruit punch to symbolize Ares’ love of bloodshed. Another girl prepared chicken skewers to resemble rays of sun as she represented Helios, god of the sun. Athena, goddess of wisdom often represented by an owl, was evoked by owl cookies.
“Greek mythology lends itself to artistic expression,” said Literature teacher Mrs. Jill Kerr. She noted that the study of Greek mythology in sixth grade primes the students for later study of Homer’s The Odyssey and various Shakespeare plays. “ The entire class benefited from the visual presentation, the chance to hone speaking skills, and an absolutely delicious lunch.”
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The Dinner with the Gods was the culmination of the sixth graders’ month-long study of D’Aulaire’s Greek Myths. Each student processed into the classroom for her presentation on her god or goddess to the class. Many teachers and upper school students attended as well, to hear the presentations, admire the costumes and sample the feast fare. Appollo, Hera, Posideon and the other Olympians were all in attendance at the event, along with some of their most well-known children.
In addition to creating a costume from found items (students were instructed not to buy outfits), each sixth grader also prepared a symbolic food or drink and a goblet to represent her immortal personality. One student dressed as Ares, god of war, and brought red fruit punch to symbolize Ares’ love of bloodshed. Another girl prepared chicken skewers to resemble rays of sun as she represented Helios, god of the sun. Athena, goddess of wisdom often represented by an owl, was evoked by owl cookies.
“Greek mythology lends itself to artistic expression,” said Literature teacher Mrs. Jill Kerr. She noted that the study of Greek mythology in sixth grade primes the students for later study of Homer’s The Odyssey and various Shakespeare plays. “ The entire class benefited from the visual presentation, the chance to hone speaking skills, and an absolutely delicious lunch.”
An independent school for girls in grades 6-12 guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church.
