Rise of Greek/Hellenistic Civilization
- Origins: The Mycenaean civilization (c. 1400-1200 BCE) laid the foundation for Greek civilization. After the collapse of Mycenae, Greece entered the Dark Ages (c. 1200-800 BCE).
- Archaic Period (c. 800-500 BCE): This period saw the rise of independent city-states known as poleis. Polis development led to political innovation, cultural achievements, and territorial expansion.
- Classical Period (c. 500-323 BCE): This period marked the zenith of Hellenic civilization. Athens became a cultural and intellectual center. Greek city-states fought the Persian Wars (499-449 BCE), leading to the Golden Age of Athens.
- Hellenistic Period (c. 323-146 BCE): After the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE, his vast empire was divided among his generals. Hellenistic civilization blended Greek with Persian, Egyptian, and other Eastern influences, spreading Greek culture throughout the Mediterranean world.
Contribution of Greek/Hellenistic Civilization
- Philosophy: Greek philosophers, such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, developed fundamental ideas in Western thought, including logic, metaphysics, and ethics.
- Democracy: Athens developed the first known democratic government, where citizens had a voice in their own rule.
- Mathematics: Greek mathematicians, such as Pythagoras and Euclid, made significant contributions to geometry, algebra, and trigonometry.
- Science: Greek scientists, such as Aristarchus and Archimedes, challenged prevailing theories and made advances in astronomy, physics, and medicine.
- Medicine: Hippocrates, known as the "father of medicine," established ethical principles for medical practice.
- Literature: Greek epic poets, such as Homer and Hesiod, wrote influential works that shaped Western literature. Athenian dramatists, such as Sophocles and Euripides, wrote innovative plays that explored human themes.
- Art: Greek architects, sculptors, and painters produced masterpieces that emphasized harmony, balance, and realism.
- Architecture: The Greeks developed architectural styles that influenced Roman and Western architecture. Famous examples include the Parthenon and the Acropolis of Athens.
- History: Greek historians, such as Herodotus and Thucydides, wrote detailed accounts of events, laying the foundation for historical study.
- Language: The Greek language became a lingua franca of the ancient world, spreading Greek ideas and culture throughout the Mediterranean region.
- Spread of Greek Culture: Alexander the Great's conquests spread Greek culture throughout the Eastern world, leading to the development of a Hellenistic civilization that influenced the Roman Empire and beyond.