1. Many texts in this course have examined the medium in which they were written. Why do they do this? How does their examination of their medium further the other ideas that the texts are presenting? Does this examination of their own media give these works added authority?

2. Due to the time period in which these texts were written, and their subject matter, the primary focus of these texts has been on men. However, women are frequently showcased as part of the stories. Why are women, who have little power in society, given such a central place in these texts? Are these women shown as powerless or are they driving the action? Is there a difference between the way mortal women and goddesses are portrayed?

3. Many of these texts demonstrate the interaction of a god or gods with mortals. How are these gods similar or different than their mortal counterparts? Why do you think that the gods are portrayed as they are? How does the behavior of the gods impact the overall message and theme of the work?

4. Often, a central theme of these texts is the relationship between fate and free will. Does the individual have any choice in his actions or is his fate pre-determined? What role do the gods play in the contrast between fate and free will? Are they also subject to fate and free will?

5. In several of these texts, there is a focus on the quest for knowledge. This could include a journey on the part of the protagonist, the invocation of the gods, a trial in a court of law, the questioning of one?s circumstances, etc. Why does the individual search for truth? What forms can this search for knowledge take? Is it better to question or simply accept fate? Is truth/knowledge ultimately found or even attainable?

6. One of the central scenarios presented in many of these texts is war/fighting. What are the central duties of the warrior? What is the duty to one? s country? Should the individual place his rights or his belief above any other person or his country? Is an ordinary life preferable to a glorious death? What are the things that are worth fighting for?

7. Many of these texts serve as foundational texts for their societies and present universal themes that the reader can apply to his own life. Yet, these texts generally focus upon a few individuals. What is the relationship between an individual and his society? Between himself and nature? Between society and nature? Should an individual act in accordance with his own code, in accordance with the laws of his society, or in accordance with the laws of his gods?

8. Most of the texts we have read center around men. However, love and devotion are central to many of these stories. How does love serve to drive much of the action in these stories? What are the differing conceptions/definitions of love? Must love always be reciprocated? What happens when love is only one-sided How is love demonstrated?
Criminal Justice: Leadership Approach