Ancient Greece Quest Study Guide

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms, figures, events, and concepts from the Ancient Greece Quest Study Guide.

Geography of Ancient Greece

Mountainous and rocky terrain with limited farmland that shaped Greek life through trade, isolation, and the creation of city-states.

Homer

A Greek poet important in storytelling and Greek culture who wrote the Iliad and the Odyssey.

Arête

The strive for excellence, the need for perfection, and being strong, talented, and the best of the best.

Polis

An ancient Greek city-state.

Phalanx

A formation made with Hoplites soldiers with their sword and shield.

Hoplites

Soldiers who form the Phalanx using their sword and shield.

Discovery of Iron

An important development because iron was cheap, allowing ordinary citizens to afford weapons.

Aristocracy

Rule by a few families.

Tyrants

Rulers used because they helped the less powerful gain power.

Solon

An Athenian figure who increased democracy by abolishing debt slavery and cancelling debt.

Cleisthenes

An Athenian figure who increased democracy by creating the Council of 500.

Sparta

A strict Greek city-state that focused heavily on military skill, discipline, and strength.

Athens

A Greek city-state focused on education, arts, creativity, and democratic government involving citizens.

Persian Wars

A major war caused by Persia wanting more land and power while Greece wanted to stay free, resulting in Greek city-states preserving independence.

Pericles

A major leader for Athens in the Golden Age who strengthened democracy, expanded citizen involvement, built a stronger navy, and glorified Athens.

Battle of Marathon

A major battle during the Persian War in which Athens defeated the Persians.

Xerxes

A Persian King who led the invasions of Greece.

Herodotus

An individual who wrote the history of the Persian Wars.

Thucydides

An individual who wrote the history of the Peloponnesian War.

Delian League

A league formed as a major result of the Persian Wars after the Greeks defeated the Persians.

Peloponnesian War

A conflict between the Spartans and Athens fought because Athens had become very powerful and wealthy, causing fear among Spartans and their allies.

Sophocles and Euripides

Playwrights in Athens during the Golden Age who contributed to drama, which included comedy.