Curriculum/The Story of the Greeks/Heroic Death of Codrus
The Story of the Greeks•Grade 4•grammar Stage

Heroic Death of Codrus

After 100 years, the Heraclidae (descendants of Hercules) returned with the Dorians to reclaim the Peloponnesus. They drove the Ionians to Athens, Asia Minor (Ionia), and the islands. The Ionians asked King Codrus of Athens to fight Sparta. An oracle said victory would go to the army whose king was killed. Codrus disguised himself as a common soldier and rushed into battle to be killed. The Athenians won, and they so honored Codrus that they vowed never to have another king, replacing him with an archon (chief for life). This marks the end of the Heroic Age.

The Text

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1

Comprehension

Explains the Heraclidae returned after 100 years with the Dorians

2

Cause & Consequence

Explains why Heraclidae returned: the 100-year exile ended

3

Significance

Defines true heroism as willingness to die for others

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