Intro to Greece
What are some important characteristics of an effective statesman What are some important characteristics of an effective statesman? What conclusions can you draw about Pericles from the way he is depicted in the sculpture?
Greek Culture The ancient Greeks had widespread influence that continues to impact our lives today. For example: Modern ideas about democracy and citizen participation in government come from the ancient Greeks. Many English words, such as philosophy, are derived from Greek roots. Ancient Greek architectural forms, such as columns and pediments, are still used in buildings today. Plays and films have their origins in the drama of the ancient Greeks. Pericles is also famous for overseeing the construction of the Parthenon. Requiring 20,000 tons of marble and nearly 15 years to complete, the Parthenon would be Pericles’s architectural masterpiece. In the first year of its construction, the Parthenon cost the equivalent of some $3 billion in today’s money.
Ancient Greek civilization marked a critical turning point in human history. Greek philosophers were the first to examine the world critically and rationally and applied logic to science, politics & math. Ancient Greeks had widespread influence that continues to impact our life today. For example… Ideas about democracy and citizen participation! Helped develop our alphabet (Phoenician) and many of our words are derived from Greek roots (philosophy, history, politics) Ancient Greek architectural forms, such as columns and domes, are still used in buildings today! Plays and films have their origins in the Greek development of drama – both tragedy and comedy The Olympics! Why do we study Greece?
Geography of Ancient Greece Mountain ranges = protection & isolation Surrounded by sea = allowed the Greeks to become traders, build a navy and expand their empire.
Establishing overseas colonies allowed Greeks to spread their culture and political ideas.
Polis, or city-state, was the political unit of Greek civilization Polis, or city-state, was the political unit of Greek civilization. Located at the top of a fortified hill (acropolis) Each polis became a community of people who shared a common identity and common goals. Some citizens had political rights (adult males), while others did not (women, children, slaves). As the polis developed, so did a new military system Greek city-states were independent and distrusted one another (often led to war!) The Polis
Main themes throughout Greek civilization: heroes, bravery, honor, dignity, and the love of beauty. In religion, the Greeks worshiped gods and goddesses Temple built for Apollo (God of music, prophecy, archery & medicine) – 4th Century B.C. Greek Civilization
Greek Government In the 700s BC, aristocrats were challenged by tyrants (rulers who seized power on their own; wanted more political influence) Tyrannies maintained power by hiring soldiers & creating public works programs. Greeks believed in the rule of law! (Tyrants insulted this ideal!) As a result, in 500s BC, city-states became either: Oligarchy: rule by a few Democracy: rule by the citizens
Greek City-States Two major city-states in ancient Greece: Sparta Oligarchy Warlike society Men & Women contributed Athens Freer society known for artistic/intellectual achievements Democracy allowed citizens to assemble, hold public office, vote, own property, court rights, etc.
Greek City State: Sparta This week, we will learn about several conflicts in Ancient Greece – most involving the city-state of Sparta. To learn more about Sparta, read pgs. 83-84. For each point below, write a one- sentence summary on the main idea: Helots Men Women Government Isolation Greek City State: Sparta
Engineering an Empire: Ancient Greece Citizens of ancient Greece constructed many temples, statues, and buildings, but how did they do it? In this video, you are going to learn about the history of the Greek city-states and the construction of these magnificent structures! As you watch the video, answer the 15 questions on the worksheet. Be ready to discuss!