Works and Days

Definition

'Works and Days' is an ancient Greek poem attributed to Hesiod that combines agricultural advice with mythological narratives, illustrating the struggles of rural life and the importance of hard work. This poem is essential in understanding Greek creation myths and theogony as it reflects on themes of justice, labor, and the human condition, while also linking to the divine through references to gods and their influences on human life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Works and Days' presents a moral framework where Hesiod emphasizes the value of hard work, portraying laziness as a vice that leads to suffering.
2. The poem includes mythological elements such as the story of Pandora, which explains how human woes entered the world as a result of divine actions.
3. 'Works and Days' serves not only as an agricultural manual but also as a commentary on social justice, urging adherence to ethical behavior and fair dealings among people.
4. The text distinguishes between two ages of humanity: the Golden Age, marked by peace and abundance, and later ages characterized by hardship and strife.
5. Hesiod's practical advice on farming techniques, seasonal work schedules, and labor ethics reflects the agrarian lifestyle of ancient Greece and offers insights into its economic foundations.

Review Questions

• How does Hesiod's 'Works and Days' reflect the relationship between labor and morality in ancient Greek society?
  • 'Works and Days' illustrates that hard work is essential not only for survival but also for moral integrity. Hesiod conveys that diligence leads to prosperity while laziness results in hardship. This connection emphasizes the ethical dimension of labor in ancient Greek culture, suggesting that one's social standing is intertwined with their work ethic.
• Discuss how 'Works and Days' complements Hesiod's 'Theogony' in understanding Greek mythology.
  • 'Works and Days' complements 'Theogony' by providing a practical application of the myths found in Hesiod's other work. While 'Theogony' details the origins of gods and cosmic order, 'Works and Days' grounds these stories in everyday life through themes of labor, justice, and human suffering. Together, they illustrate how divine influences shape human experience and societal norms.
• Evaluate the impact of Hesiod's portrayal of agricultural practices in 'Works and Days' on our understanding of ancient Greek economic structures.
  • 'Works and Days' provides valuable insights into ancient Greek economic structures by detailing agricultural practices crucial for survival. Hesiod’s advice on seasonal labor reveals the significance of agriculture in sustaining communities. This focus on agrarian life highlights how economic activities were intertwined with cultural values, reflecting broader social dynamics within ancient Greece during Hesiod's time.'

Related terms

Hesiod:

'Hesiod' was a Greek poet who lived around the 8th century BCE and is known for his works that provide insight into ancient Greek mythology, agriculture, and daily life, including 'Theogony' and 'Works and Days'.

Theogony: 'Theogony' is another work by Hesiod that describes the origins and genealogies of the gods, outlining the creation of the cosmos and the establishment of divine order.

Agriculture: 'Agriculture' refers to the practice of farming and cultivation of land, which is a central theme in 'Works and Days', emphasizing the importance of hard work for sustenance and survival.