How did common Greeks explain nature events prior to scientific explanations?
Prior to scientific explanations, common Greeks attributed various natural events to the actions and will of their gods and goddesses. They believed that these gods and goddesses controlled and influenced different aspects of the natural world. Here are some examples:
1. Thunder and lightning: Greeks believed that thunder and lightning were caused by Zeus, the king of gods. They thought that Zeus used his lightning bolt as a weapon to punish or communicate with humans.
2. Earthquakes: Greeks believed that earthquakes were the result of Poseidon, the god of the sea, shaking the earth with his trident. They believed that Poseidon caused earthquakes as a form of punishment or to express his anger.
3. Sun and Moon: Greeks believed that the sun and moon were divine beings. They believed that Helios drove the sun across the sky in his chariot, and that Selene guided the moon across the night sky. They thought that the rising and setting of the sun and moon were controlled by the gods.
4. Natural disasters: Greeks believed that natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and famines were the result of the gods' displeasure or punishment. They believed that if people angered the gods or failed to worship them adequately, these disasters would befall their communities.
These explanations were deeply rooted in their religious beliefs and formed the basis of their understanding of the natural world. It was not until the development of scientific thought and reasoning that different explanations for these natural events began to emerge.