Witchcraft in ancient Greece and Rome

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/witchcraft-in-ancient-greece-and-rome

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What language do people speak in Witchcraft in ancient Greece and Rome?Ancient Greek and Latin were the predominant languages, with numerous regional dialects
2. What is the capital/main cities?Key urban centers included Athens, Rome, Alexandria, and Constantinople
3. What kinds of magic did people in ancient Greece and Rome use?They used healing spells, divination, and protective rituals, and also harmful curses and potions.
4. Who were some famous magical characters in Greek stories?Medea and Circe were well-known for their powerful magic, showing how people felt about female power.

Defixiones: Ancient curse tablets, typically made of lead, used to invoke supernatural forces for harm.
Divination: The practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown by supernatural means.
Malevolent Magic: Magical practices intended to cause harm, misfortune, or suffering to others.