Key Terms and Figures in Ancient Greece

Archon

A chief magistrate in ancient Athens.

Tyrant

A cruel or unjust ruler, usually with absolute power.

Ostracism

In Ancient Greece, a method of banishing a citizen by popular vote, without trial or formal accusation.

Symposion

A formal dinner party for male friends held in the late afternoon.

Philosophy

The study of the truth and principles that underlie all knowledge.

Oligarchy

A form of government in which power rests with a few people.

Draconian

Harsh or severe, especially of laws and their application.

Frieze

A horizontal band forming part of the upper section of a wall, often adorned by sculpture.

Anthropomorphic

Attributing human form or qualities to gods, animals, or other non-human life forms.

Mythology

A body of myths, or traditional stories, that relate to a particular culture or person.

Aristotle

Philosopher; founder of Aristotelian philosophy; made contributions to logic, metaphysics, & ethics.

Cleisthenes

Politician; introduced democratic reforms in Athens.

Draco

Politician; created one of the first written legal codes of Athens.

Homer

Poet; author of epic poems - The Iliad and The Odyssey.

Herodotus

Historian; known as father of history; wrote histories of the Greco-Persian Wars.

Pericles

Politician; led Athens during its Golden Age.

Pisistratus

Politician; tyrant of Athens; promoted public works and supported the arts.

Hippocrates

Scientist; father of modern medicine; established Hippocratic Oath.

Plato

Philosopher; founded the Academy in Athens; wrote The Republic.

Socrates

Philosopher; developed the Socratic method.

Solon

Politician; reformed Athens' laws.

Thucydides

Historian; wrote History of the Peloponnesian War.