Ancient Greece

Ancient Greece was a civilization belonging to a period of Greek history from the Greek Dark Ages of the 12th–9th centuries BC to the end of antiquity (c. AD 600). This period saw the rise of the city-states, the invention of Greek democracy, the composition of the Homeric epics, the philosophical teachings of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and the birth of the theatre in the form of tragedy and comedy.

Geography

Ancient Greece was located in southeastern Europe, along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Its geography included mountains, lowlands, and the sea. The Aegean Sea, the Ionian Sea, and the neighboring islands were integral parts of Ancient Greece.

History

The history of Ancient Greece can be segmented into several eras, the most notable of which are the Archaic period, the Classical period, and the Hellenistic period.

Archaic period

The Archaic period (c. 800- 500 BC) saw the rise of the polis or city-state, the establishment of colonies and the development of the phalanx military system.

Classical period

The Classical period (c. 500 – 323 BC) is characterized by the rivalry between Athens and Sparta, the Peloponnesian War, and the teachings of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

Hellenistic period

The Hellenistic period (323–31 BC) began after the death of Alexander the Great and ended with the rise of the Roman Empire.

Culture

Ancient Greek culture had a powerful influence on the Roman Empire, which carried a version of it to many parts of the Mediterranean region and Europe. Greek culture influenced the development of Roman law, Roman architecture, sculpture, literature, and philosophy.

Philosophy

Ancient Greece is known as the birthplace of Western philosophy. Some of the most famous and influential philosophers came from Greece, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

Art and Architecture

The art and architecture of ancient Greece have had a significant impact on later cultures, including the Roman Empire and Western civilizations up to the present day. The Greeks developed a unique style of architecture, the most famous examples of which are the Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi.

Religion

The religion in Ancient Greece was predominantly a polytheistic faith which means that the people believed in multiple gods instead of just one. The twelve main gods and goddesses in ancient Greek religion were known as the Twelve Olympians.

Legacy

The legacy of Ancient Greece can be seen in the foundations of Western culture, democracy, and scientific and philosophical principles. The influence of this civilization is still evident in modern architecture, literature, politics, and philosophy.