Classical and Hellenistic Greece Lecture Notes

This set of flashcards covers key terms, definitions, and figures from Classical and Hellenistic Greece based on lecture notes.

Parthenon

A temple on the Acropolis in Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena, built between 448-432 B.C.E.

Acropolis

The high point of a city, particularly in ancient Athens, where significant buildings and temples were located.

Delian League

An alliance of Greek city-states led by Athens, established around 470 B.C.E.

Athenian Golden Age

A period of cultural achievements in Athens following the defeat of the Persians, lasting from 479 B.C.E. to 404 B.C.E.

Draco

The first known legislator of Athens, credited with creating a written code of laws around 621 B.C.E.

Solon

A reformer who established a democratic system in Athens around 594 B.C.E., including the right for lower classes to participate.

Pisistratus

An Athenian leader known for redistributing land and promoting arts during his rule (ca. 605-527 B.C.E.).

Cleisthenes

A leader who created the first democratic system in Athens by dividing the city into demes (neighborhoods) around 508 B.C.E.

Miltiades

A general who led the Greeks to victory at the Battle of Marathon against the Persians in 490 B.C.E.

Themistocles

An Athenian general who prepared for the return of the Persians, notable for the Battle of Salamis in 480 B.C.E.

Herodotus

Known as the Father of History; Greek historian who provided accounts of the Persian Wars.

Leonidas

Spartan king who led 300 men at Thermopylae against the Persian army.

Pericles

An influential Athenian leader who oversaw the construction of the Acropolis and promoted democracy and the arts.

Acropolis of Athens

A citadel that housed important temples, destroyed by the Persians in 480 B.C.E. and later rebuilt.

Thucydides

A Greek historian who documented the Peloponnesian War and its causes.

Olympics

Ancient Greek athletic competitions held every four years beginning in 776 B.C.E.

Aeschylus

The earliest known Greek dramatist, recognized as the creator of tragedy.

Sophocles

A renowned playwright whose tragedies focused on human character and individual concerns, such as in 'Oedipus the King.'

Euripides

A playwright known for his complex characters and social commentary, particularly concerning women and societal norms.

Aristophanes

A comic playwright known for his satirical works criticizing social and political issues in ancient Greece.

Philosophy in Greece

A critical aspect of Greek culture, emphasizing reason and inquiry, with prominent figures like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

Socrates

A classical Greek philosopher known for his method of questioning and his pursuit of ethical knowledge.

Plato

A student of Socrates who wrote dialogues exploring philosophical concepts and founded the Academy in Athens.

Democracy

A form of government developed in Athens where citizens participated in decision-making.

Acropolis significance

A symbol of Athenian power and cultural achievement, embodying the values of beauty and civic pride.

Golden Age downfall

Brought about by the Peloponnesian War and marked by Athens's defeat at the hands of Sparta in 404 B.C.E.

Classical Greece

The period of Greek history characterized by significant cultural, political, and military achievements.

Hellenistic period

The era following Alexander the Great’s death, marked by the spread of Greek culture across the Mediterranean and Near East.

Theater of Epidauros

An ancient Greek theater renowned for its architecture and acoustics, capable of seating thousands.

Democracy test

During the Persian invasions, Athenian democracy was challenged, notably at the Battle of Marathon.

The Bacchae

A play by Euripides depicting the chaos and madness of humans led by divine influence.

The Oresteia

A trilogy of plays by Aeschylus focusing on themes of justice and the evolution of the judicial system.

Agora

The central public space in ancient Athens where citizens gathered for events and commerce.

Drama origins

Greek drama evolved from choral celebrations honoring Dionysus, incorporating dialogue by individual actors.

Marathon run

The legendary run from Marathon to Athens by a messenger announcing Greek victory over the Persians.