Classical Antiquity

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Classical Antiquity[edit | edit source]

Classical Antiquity refers to a long period of cultural history centered around the Mediterranean Sea, comprising the interlocking civilizations of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, collectively known as the Greco-Roman world. It is conventionally taken to begin with the earliest-recorded Greek poetry of Homer (8th–7th century BC), and continues through the rise of Christianity and the decline of the Western Roman Empire (5th century AD).

Historical Overview[edit | edit source]

Ancient Greece[edit | edit source]

Ancient Greece is considered the cradle of Western civilization. It was a period marked by significant advancements in philosophy, politics, science, and the arts. The Classical period (5th–4th century BC) saw the rise of city-states like Athens and Sparta, the development of democracy, and the flourishing of philosophy with figures such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

Hellenistic Period[edit | edit source]

Following the conquests of Alexander the Great, Greek culture spread across the eastern Mediterranean and into Asia, leading to the Hellenistic period (323–31 BC). This era was characterized by the blending of Greek and Eastern cultures, advancements in science and technology, and the establishment of cities like Alexandria in Egypt.

Ancient Rome[edit | edit source]

The Roman Republic (509–27 BC) and the subsequent Roman Empire (27 BC–AD 476) were pivotal in shaping the course of Western history. Rome's legal system, engineering, and military prowess were unmatched. The Pax Romana (27 BC–AD 180) was a period of relative peace and stability across the empire, allowing for economic prosperity and cultural exchange.

Cultural Achievements[edit | edit source]

Philosophy[edit | edit source]

Classical Antiquity was a golden age for philosophy. Greek philosophers laid the foundations for Western philosophical thought. Stoicism, Epicureanism, and Neoplatonism were influential schools of thought during this period.

Literature[edit | edit source]

The literature of Classical Antiquity includes epic poems like Homer's Iliad and Odyssey, the tragedies of Sophocles and Euripides, and the comedies of Aristophanes. Roman literature flourished with works by Virgil, Ovid, and Horace.

Art and Architecture[edit | edit source]

Greek art and architecture set standards of beauty and harmony that influenced Roman culture. The Parthenon in Athens and the Colosseum in Rome are iconic examples of classical architecture.

Science and Technology[edit | edit source]

Mathematics and Astronomy[edit | edit source]

Greek mathematicians like Euclid and Archimedes made significant contributions to geometry and mechanics. Ptolemy's work in astronomy was influential for centuries.

Medicine[edit | edit source]

The practice of medicine in Classical Antiquity was advanced by figures such as Hippocrates, who is often called the "Father of Medicine." The Hippocratic Corpus laid the foundation for modern medical ethics.

Religion and Mythology[edit | edit source]

Greek Mythology[edit | edit source]

Greek mythology, with its pantheon of gods and goddesses like Zeus, Hera, and Athena, played a central role in Greek culture and religious practices.

Roman Religion[edit | edit source]

Roman religion was heavily influenced by Greek mythology but also included native Italic traditions. The Roman pantheon included gods such as Jupiter, Mars, and Venus.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Classical Antiquity has left a lasting legacy on Western civilization. Its influence is evident in modern government, philosophy, art, and science. The Renaissance was a period of renewed interest in classical learning, and many of the ideas and values of Classical Antiquity continue to shape contemporary thought.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External Links[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD