The Civilization of the Greeks
Identify at least three of the major contributions
made by the Greek culture.
Why is the Polis significant to Greek society?
What are some of the major differences between
Sparta and Greece? Identify at least three.
Who are the three major philosophers and why is
Greek philosophy so important?
In the region known as the Mediterranean the
Greeks developed an advanced culture.
Their medicine, mathematics, engineering, and
artwork were by far some of the most advanced
examples seen for this period.
The polis, or Greek city-state, was central to Greek
life. Not only did the polis serve as a town or
village, but it was the center for political, social,
and religious activities. It was, in a sense, a
community.
Athens and Sparta emerged
as the most powerful city-
states, and they became
models for Western
government.
The concept of citizenship
was developed and
democracy was defined by
the Greeks.
Sparta Athens
Military driven, men lived in the Oligarchy with aristocrats in
service from ages 20- 30.
control.
Men could vote at age 30.
Democratic government in
Women experienced more freedoms
594.
because men lived with the barracks.
Oligarchy government, two kings. Solon introduced reforms
Council of elders made up by citizens
that improved the social and
and the two kings. economic condition of
Conservative style of government.
Athens.
Restrictive society. Could not travel, Legislative Branch
feared foreigners, discouraged the Direct Democracy; citizens
study of art, literature, and voted directly on issues.
philosophy.
led to the study of history,
political science, science, and
mathematics.
Greek thinkers called
philosophers developed ideas
that are still relevant today.
The most famous
philosophers—Socrates,
Plato, and Aristotle—
contributed to Western
society in a number of ways,
including their commitment
to rational inquiry.
Greece was the principle source of Western culture.
Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle established the
foundations of Western philosophy.
The rational method of inquiry is so important to
modern science.
Democracy introduced to citizens a strict sense of
duty.
Today America as a result has adopted some these
important contributions.