Political History of Ancient Greece: Athens and Sparta

These vocabulary flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the political and cultural history of ancient Athens and Sparta, as discussed in the lecture.

Acropolis

The high city in Athens, a sacred ground where significant temples were built, including the Parthenon.

Parthenon

A temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess after whom Athens is named, known for its architectural significance.

Draconian

Referring to laws that are extremely harsh or severe, named after the Athenian lawgiver Draco.

Hoplite Warfare

A style of warfare used by the Greek city-states characterized by heavily armed foot soldiers.

Oligarchy

A system of government where power is concentrated in the hands of a few wealthy individuals.

Isonomia

A term meaning equality before the law, associated with the idea of democracy in Athens.

Clycenus

An Athenian who established a new political system known as democracy after overthrowing the tyranny.

Ostracism

A political practice in Athens allowing citizens to vote to banish someone for five years if they pose a threat to democracy.

Pericles

An influential leader of Athens known for expanding democracy and leading during the Golden Age of Athens.

Medics

Foreign residents in Athens, often skilled laborers, who were granted rights but were not full citizens.

Tyranny

A form of government where power is seized and held by an individual or group, often through illegal means.

Ekklesia

The assembly in which all Athenian citizens could participate, responsible for voting on laws.

Draco

An Athenian lawgiver known for his harsh laws, which led to the term 'draconian' to describe extreme penalties.

Archons

The executive officials in Ancient Athens who were responsible for various administrative tasks.

Sparta

A rival city-state to Athens, known for its militaristic society and oligarchic government structure.

Athena

The Greek goddess of war, strategy, and wisdom; the city of Athens is named in her honor.

Peloponnesian War

A protracted conflict between the city-states of Athens and Sparta, resulting in significant consequences for both.

The Agora

The central public space in ancient Athens where citizens gathered for various purposes, including political discussions.

Demagoguery

A political strategy that seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than using rational argument.

Solon

An Athenian statesman known for his reforms that laid the groundwork for democracy in Athens.

Tethys

The term used to describe the poorest class in Athens, lacking land and wealth.

Temples of Democracy

Structures like the Parthenon that embody the principles and values of Athenian democracy.

Mycenaean Civilization

The ancient civilization that preceded classical Greece and significantly influenced Greek culture and political structures.