Year 5 had a brilliant start to the week, with Ancient Greece coming to them. They met the Archon of the Agora, who introduced them to the events of 490 BC and spoke of the on-going battle at Marathon between the Athenians and the Persians. The day was interspersed with snippets of news arriving so that the children were made aware of the progress of the battle.
The Archon delivering news of the battle
The children also spent some time learning new skills as they investigated various activities set up for them; they became lamp makers, wax tablet makers, pottery painters, mosaic makers, charm makers and potters. The work was of course, the very best, to represent the skill and quality of the Athenian craftsmen. Prayers were offered to the Goddess Athena to ensure each craft was indeed made successfully; thanks were also given as they displayed the final product.
Making charm bracelets
Wax tablet making
Designing and painting clay tiles
Crushing olives to make oil for the lantern
Cutting tiles for a mosaic
Offering prayers to Athena, Goddess of Athens
Soldiers were trained to fight throughout the day, responding to orders issued.
Soldiers preparing for battle
The Oracle of Delphi arrived to tell the fortunes of those who paid her coins as they asked her important questions about the war, or maybe something about their personal life.
A vote was held to see who would become the chief of the Agora, but of course, it had to be reminded that slaves, Metics (non Athenians) and women were not able to vote!
Voting time (for Athenian men only)
Pheidippides, a messenger, arrived after running 26 miles, to announce the Persian defeat. After collapsing from exhaustion, it was decided that his efforts would be commemorated by holding a 26 mile race every year, which became known as the Marathon.
Pheidippides collapsing after a 26 mile run from Marathon
In the afternoon, the children were divided into groups to hold a Competition of Plays. Two groups performed tragedies, whilst the other was a satire (comedy). The actors rehearsed and then performed as the audience feasted and drank their wine, served to them by the slaves. The performances were of high quality, of course, and the winning group (after a democratic vote) were duly awarded a goat to sacrifice to the gods.
The Tragedy of Agamemnon
The tragic tale of Prometheus, and of Pandora’s jar
Cyclops – a satire
Celebrating with wine
Slaves serving up the feast
The class had a brilliant experience, and everyone joined in eagerly. The costumes looked amazing, and everyone kept in role throughout the day. Our marvellous helpers, as well as the Archon himself, remarked on the exquisite behaviour and enthusiasm of the group. Well done, Year 5; I am very proud.
