Final answer:
The Greeks were polytheistic, worshipping a pantheon of gods each with distinct roles and domains. This belief was central to their culture, impacting many aspects of their society including arts and politics. The correct option for the question is 'polytheistic.'
Step-by-step explanation:
The Greeks were polytheistic, believing in multiple gods like Athena and Zeus. Polytheism is a type of religion based on belief in multiple deities, where each god or goddess is responsible for specific aspects of the world. The ancient Greek pantheon included numerous deities, including the twelve Olympian gods and goddesses who resided on Mt. Olympus. These gods and goddesses were integral to Greek culture, influencing not only religious practices but also their government, art, architecture, philosophy, and sport.
Societies that are polytheistic often have rich mythologies and rituals, and this was certainly true for ancient Greece. Their religion was characterized by complex mythologies and varied cult practices, where gods were worshipped through sacrifices, rituals, and festivals across the numerous poleis or city-states such as Athens and Sparta. Each city-state had its own specific religious cults, yet they shared a common language, religion, and culture, incorporating their belief in multiple gods into their daily lives and worldview.
In addressing the question, the correct option is "polytheistic." The Greeks were polytheistic, as they believed in multiple gods each with their own domain, such as Zeus, the king of gods who ruled the sky, and his brother Poseidon, who governed the seas. Despite political fragmentation, their shared religious beliefs and practices were among the unifying factors of the Greek world.