Political implications of the Theseus myth in Attic painted pottery

Bibliography: pages [56]-60.A survey of heroic iconography in Greek vase painting reveals the lasting character of the heroic ideal in ancient Greek society as well as its adaptability to meet the changing needs of the Greek city state. The hero Theseus is the subject of a study of the political role of heroic myth beginning at the turn of the fifth century B.C., when new legends about the hero and new Theseus images appeared. Changing images of Theseus reflect the maturing of democratic ideals during the fifth century B.C. Historical evidence combined with the development of Theseus images in vase painting supports the conclusion that Theseus emerged as the heroic representative of democratic political leaders throughout the fifth century B.C.M.A. (Master of Arts