Troy: Myth or History?
Explore how Heinrich Schliemann's excavation at Hisarlik in modern Turkey raised questions about whether the Trojan War described in Homer's Iliad was historical, partly historical, or entirely mythical — understanding that archaeology and literary sources can support or contradict each other, and that the line between myth and history in the ancient world is often blurred
Share and support
Teaching Table
Set out your lesson
“Could your child discuss whether the Trojan War really happened, explaining what archaeology has found at Troy and why the answer isn't simple?”
Full guide and materials
- Activity. Explore how Heinrich Schliemann's excavation at Hisarlik in modern Turkey raised questions about whether the Trojan War described in Homer's Iliad was historical, partly historical, or entirely mythical — understanding that archaeology and literary sources can support or contradict each other, and that the line between myth and history in the ancient world is often blurred
What to notice. Describe Schliemann's excavation at Hisarlik and what he claimed to have found • Explain how archaeological evidence at Troy both supports and complicates Homer's story • Discuss why the boundary between myth and history is difficult to draw for the ancient world
Compare teaching approaches
Teaching approaches
Gakuva’s recommended starting approach is selected. You can still compare every option.
1 approach
Could your child discuss whether the Trojan War really happened, explaining what archaeology has found at Troy and why the answer isn't simple?
Explore how Heinrich Schliemann's excavation at Hisarlik in modern Turkey raised questions about whether the Trojan War described in Homer's Iliad was historical, partly historical, or entirely mythical — understanding that archaeology and literary sources can support or contradict each other, and that the line between myth and history in the ancient world is often blurred
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Learning resources
External links for extra practice. They do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
No additional resources are listed for this topic.
The teaching approach appears above.
Check understanding
- Describe Schliemann's excavation at Hisarlik and what he claimed to have found
- Explain how archaeological evidence at Troy both supports and complicates Homer's story
- Discuss why the boundary between myth and history is difficult to draw for the ancient world
“Could your child discuss whether the Trojan War really happened, explaining what archaeology has found at Troy and why the answer isn't simple?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Conceptual
- Subject
- History
- Domain
- Ancient Greece & Rome
- Age range
- Ages 11–13