World Masterpieces 271                  Name:_________________

Writing Assignment—20 points

Gods and Goddesses Quest

Due: Friday, January 18, 2008; Web Day will be Wednesday, January 16, 2008

First, using the Internet, find listings and descriptions of the important gods and goddesses for the following cultures. (One web site per culture should be enough information).

SUMERIAN BABYLONIAN GREEK ROMAN

Next, read the descriptions of only the most important deities in each culture. What are their areas of responsibility or power?

Third, compare your lists and descriptions.

Finally, answer the following two questions, each in its own paragraph.

1. Identify and list as many similarities among the lists as you think are appropriate and important.

2. Considering the lists, what inferences can be drawn about the cultures in terms of how the world works, who or what is in charge of it, and what their relationship to “Who” is like?