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Greco-Roman Origin Myths

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Art Inquiry: The Fall of Phaeton
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Peter Paul Rubens, The Fall of Phaeton (about 1605)
Ancient Greeks believed that the god Helios drove the chariot of the sun across the sky by day, giving the earth its hours and seasons. Controlling the chariot required enormous strength and skill. Helios made a promise that set the burning sun out of control.

Learn more about this work of art by answering the multiple-choice questions below. Mouse over the image for clues!

1. Who is trying to drive the chariot?

  1. Helios, the son of Phaeton
  2. Phaeton, the son of Helios
  3. One of the horses
  4. An unknown winged figure

2. What does the light shining down through the center of the painting represent?

  1. The clearing of a storm
  2. A rainbow
  3. Zeus’ thunderbolt
  4. Helios’ goodness

3. What type of lines does Rubens use to create a sense of action and drama in the painting?

  1. Horizontal
  2. Vertical
  3. Diagonal
  4. Circular

4. When the chariot falls downward and scorches the earth, what geographical feature is created?

  1. Deserts
  2. Volcanos
  3. Mountains
  4. Hot springs
 
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Sir Peter Paul Rubens, The Fall of Phaeton, c. 1605, oil on canvas, National Gallery of Art, Patrons’ Permanent Fund