Unit 4-Mediterranean CivilizationsPortfolio
World History A
Directions
For this portfolio, you are required to answer the following question. “How are religion and culture connected?” You are required to choose one of the civilizations we have discussed so far as your topic and answer this question in a five paragraph essay. Follow these steps to help you create your essay.
Step 1-Choose your topic
Pick one civilization
Mesopotamia
Ancient Egypt
Indus River Valley civilization
Han Dynasty
Mauryan Empire
Ancient Greece
Ancient Rome
Step 2-Find examples of how religion and culture were connected in your civilization in these three ways
Politically
Social Structure
Art literature and entertainment
Politics- involves how people govern the country. Does a ruler use religion to claim authority? Is religion used to guide principles for how rulers should govern?
Social Structure- is how the social hierarchy is created and upheld. Does a religion encourage a type of social behavior (e.g. respecting elders, being obedient)? Does a religion put women in a lower social position?
Art, literature and entertainment- is what people create in words, stone or other materials. Does a religion influence what kind of art or literature (e.g. statues, paintings, stories) is produced? Do people celebrate festivals in honor of a religion or god?
Step 3-Start Building Your Essay
Your essay should be five paragraphs in length.
Introduction Paragraph
Body Paragraph #1
Body Paragraph #2
Body Paragraph #3
Conclusion Paragraph
Introduction Paragraph-Your introduction paragraph should introduce your topic and include your thesis statement, You should state how religion and culture are connected and include a preview of what you plan to discuss in your body paragraphs. (3-5 sentences)
Body Paragraphs #1-3- For your body paragraphs, dedicate one paragraph to each of the three topics (political, social structure and art, literature and entertainment. ) Include specific examples of how the connection between religion and culture can be seen in your civilization’s politics, social structure and art, literature and entertainment. (3-5 sentences per body paragraph)
Conclusion Paragraph-Restate your thesis and wrap up your essay. (3-5 sentences)
Step 4-Create a Works Cited page
At the end of your essay, include a Works Cited page with a list of the sources you used.
This must be in MLA format
Step 5-Include a Check My Work link
When your essay is finished, run it through the Check My Work program.
Copy and paste the Check My Work link at the end of your essay.
Click Here to access the Check My Work instructions.
Essay Format
12 font, double spaced, Times New Roman
MLA format
Five Paragraphs
Works Cited Page
Check My Work link
Essay Outline
OPTIONAL-Use this outline to help you organize your information before writing your essay.
I. Introductory Paragraph
Thesis Statement
Topic #1 sentence
Topic #2 sentence
Topic #3 sentence
Transition sentence
II. Body Paragraph #1
Topic #1 sentence
Evidence sentences- at least 2
Concluding sentence
III. Body Paragraph #2
Topic #2 sentence
Evidence sentences- at least 2
Concluding sentence
IV. Body Paragraph #3
Topic #3 sentence
Evidence sentences- at least 2
Concluding sentence
V. Concluding Paragraph
Restate thesis
Remind us of your topics and conclusions- 3 sentences, one for each body paragraph
Concluding sentence
For this essay, I have chosen Ancient Greece as my civilization to explore the connection between religion and culture. In Ancient Greece, religion played a significant role in shaping political decisions, social structure, and art, literature, and entertainment.
Politically, the Ancient Greeks believed that their gods played a crucial role in their everyday lives. Leaders often used religion to claim their authority, as they believed they were chosen by the gods to govern. For example, the Oracle at Delphi was consulted by leaders before making important decisions, showing the influence of religion in political matters. Additionally, many rulers claimed to have a special connection with gods, further solidifying the connection between religion and politics in Ancient Greece.
In terms of social structure, religion in Ancient Greece deeply influenced ideas of morality and social behavior. The Greek religion emphasized the importance of respecting elders, being obedient, and fulfilling one's duties to the community. Women in Ancient Greece were often in a lower social position, with few rights and privileges compared to men. This social hierarchy was reinforced by religious beliefs that justified the subjugation of women.
Art, literature, and entertainment in Ancient Greece were also heavily influenced by religion. Many festivals, celebrations, and rituals were dedicated to various gods and goddesses. The Greeks created elaborate temples, statues, and artworks to honor their deities, showcasing their devotion to their religious beliefs through artistic expression. Greek mythology also played a significant role in literature and entertainment, with epic poems and plays often centered around tales of gods and heroes.
In conclusion, religion and culture were intricately connected in Ancient Greece, shaping political decisions, social structure, and artistic expressions. The beliefs and practices of the Greek religion influenced every aspect of society, from governance to social behavior to creative endeavors. The legacy of Ancient Greek culture still resonates today, reflecting the enduring influence of religion on shaping human civilization.
Works Cited
AuthorLastName, FirstName. "Title of Source." Title of Container, Publisher, Publication date, Location.
Check My Work: [insert Check My Work link here]