HUM REVIEW

Geographical influences on Greece

Greece is located on a small peninsula, divided by steep mountains and valleys, leading to a division into many city-states.

City-States

Independent political units in ancient Greece, where each had its own government and identity—examples include Athens, Sparta, and Thebes.

Citizenship in Greek city-states

The idea that free people manage the state's affairs with equality before the law.

Olympic Games

A festival held every four years that temporarily halted conflicts between city-states but did not ultimately end them.

Solon

A reforming leader in Athens who aimed to make politics more democratic by breaking the hold of aristocrat families and opening public office.

Pericles' contributions

Extended the rights of citizens and furthered the development of Athenian democracy.

Greco-Persian Wars

Conflicts between Greek city-states and Persia, leading to Greek victories that instilled deep pride.

Alexander the Great's Empire

Expanded Greek influence from Egypt and Anatolia to India, creating a vast empire dismantling the Persian Empire.

Hellenistic Era

Period characterized by the widespread dissemination of Greek culture following Alexander's conquests.

Pax Romana

A period of peace and prosperity within the Roman Empire that began with Augustus Caesar.

Republic vs. Empire in Rome

The Republic was characterized by elected officials and the Senate, while the Empire was marked by autocratic rule.

Patricians

The wealthy class in Roman society, holding most of the power and political authority.

Plebeians

The poorer class of Roman society who received protection and representation through the Office of Tribune.

Roman Law Principle: Innocent until proven guilty

A legal principle stating that one is considered innocent until proven otherwise.

Bread and Circuses

A policy in Rome aimed at keeping the populace appeased and distracted from social and political issues.

Fall of Rome: Internal Causes

Factors contributing to Rome's decline included corrupt emperors, bad economy, and overexpansion.

Homer's The Iliad

An epic poem detailing the events of the Trojan War, focusing on themes of anger and pride.

Socratic Method

A form of cooperative argumentative dialogue stimulated by asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking.

Plato's Allegory of the Cave

A philosophical concept illustrating how perceptions of reality may be flawed and the journey to enlightenment.

Doric columns

A style of Greek columns characterized by simplicity and sturdiness, without a base.

The Parthenon

An ancient temple in Athens dedicated to the goddess Athena, predominantly using Doric columns.

Epicureans

A philosophical school that teaches the pursuit of pleasure and happiness as the highest good.

Stoicism

A philosophy asserting that virtue, wisdom, and self-control are key to achieving a tranquil life.