Greek/Hellenistic People

Herodotus

• Greek historian known as the "Father of History".

• Recorded stories from his travels about the Greco-Persian wars.

• Recorded whatever he heard during his travels, especially about other cultures.

• Wrote strange and sometimes inaccurate stories, earning him the nickname “Father of Lies” as well.

• His most famous work was “Histories”

Thucydides

• An Athenian general who recorded the history of the Peloponnesian war but died before he finished its history.

• Refused to write down myths, but stretched the speeches given by individuals for dramatic effect.

• He gave credit in his writing to collective groups rather than individuals.

Xenophon

• Greek historian, soldier, and student of Socrates, known for his writings on history, philosophy, and the art of war. His notable works include "Anabasis," detailing his experiences during the Persian expedition.

Aristophanes

• A comedic author who made fun of politicians, the Peloponnesian war, and gender roles.

• His most famous play was the Lysistrata

Aiskhylos

• An author who wrote “Persians”, a tragedy that imagined the reaction of the Persian court to Xerxes’ misadventures in Greece.

• His most famous work is the Oresteia trilogy consisting of Agamemnon, the Libation Bearers, and The Furies

Sophokles

• A author who wrote Tragedies of Thebes (The Oedipus trilogy).

Euripides

An author who was popular with the Greek people. Limited the role of the gods and sometimes created immoral heroes. His most popular play is Medea.

Socrates

A Greek philosopher who questioned tradition and conventions.

Put his students on the spot and asked them direct questions, looking for critical answers.

Plato

Studied under Socrates and wrote most of what is known of him. His philosophy focused on the inner, metaphysical forms of things, like ideas relating to goodness and ethics. Advocated for his own brand of government ruled by educated elites and king.

Founded the Academy.

Aristotle

A student of Plato. His philosophy focused on the intended purpose of things. compiled lists and categories of things so he could compare/classify information. Believed political power belonged to the rich and educated. Founded his own school called the Lyceum and taught Alexander the great. The most revered Greek philosopher.

Diogenes/Cynics

Cynics challenged and abandoned all traditional assumptions like loyalty and obedience to the polis. Cynicism was based off of plain and simple living, and did not appeal to the wealthy. Diogenes took a tub for a home.

Epikouros

A philosopher who believed that life is nasty/short, and therefore, you should enjoy the time that you have, and live life to the fullest.

Zeno/Stoics

Zeno and the Stoics believed the way to live painlessly was to live in moderation. They refused to feel excessive happiness or pain. Believed the universe was guided by an organizing principle called “Logos”.

Phillip II

Alexander the Great

Attalos I

The first ruler of Pergamom to use the title of “King”. Begins the Attalid dynasty. Does not pay tribute to the Galations and defeats them near Pergamom. Eventually present themselves as protectors of Greece against barbarians. Eventually ally with Rome.