Archaic Greece

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== Archaic Greece ==

Archaic Greece refers to the period in Greek history from approximately 800 BC to 480 BC. This era followed the Greek Dark Ages and preceded the Classical period. It was a time of significant political, economic, and cultural development that laid the foundations for the subsequent achievements of Ancient Greece.

Political Developments

During the Archaic period, the polis (city-state) became the central political unit in Greece. Notable city-states such as Athens, Sparta, Corinth, and Thebes emerged during this time. The period saw the establishment of various forms of government, including oligarchy, tyranny, and early forms of democracy.

Economic Growth

The Archaic period was marked by substantial economic growth. The introduction of coinage around 600 BC facilitated trade and commerce. Greek colonies were established throughout the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions, which helped to spread Greek culture and increase wealth.

Cultural Achievements

The Archaic period witnessed significant advancements in art, literature, and philosophy. The development of the Greek alphabet allowed for the recording of Homer's epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey. In sculpture, the period is known for the creation of the kouros and kore statues, which displayed a more naturalistic style compared to earlier works.

Military Innovations

The period also saw the development of the hoplite soldier and the phalanx formation, which became the dominant military strategy in Greece. These innovations contributed to the success of Greek city-states in various conflicts, including the Greco-Persian Wars.

Religion and Mythology

Religion played a central role in Archaic Greece, with the worship of the Olympian gods and the establishment of major sanctuaries such as Delphi and Olympia. Greek mythology, which included tales of gods, heroes, and mythical creatures, was an integral part of Greek culture and influenced later literary and artistic works.

Related Pages

• Greek Dark Ages
• Classical Greece
• Ancient Greece
• Polis
• Homer
• Greek alphabet
• Hoplite
• Phalanx
• Olympian gods
• Delphi
• Olympia