Key Concepts

Commonalities of the Greeks

• Family Resemblance: Shared characteristics among Greeks, reflecting their culture and beliefs.

  • Common language: Greek

  • Shared beliefs: belief in a round world and pantheon of gods, including Zeus.

  • Participation in social and political institutions.

  • Diet predominantly included olive oil.

Important Definitions

• Transmitted Text: Historical texts handed down through generations.

• Biofact: Organic remains or materials (e.g., charcoal) related to human activity. Unlike artifacts, which are manmade.

• Inference: A conclusion based on data.

• Assumption: Something accepted without proof, either knowingly or unknowingly.

• Indo-European: Language family derived from a common Proto-Indo-European language.

• Megaron: Meeting hall where influential men convened to discuss policies for the community (demos).

• Linear B: Script used in Mycenaean Greece, containing references to governance (qasileu) akin to a mayor. Symbols represent syllables, not letters.

Epic Poetry

• Definition: Long, elevated poems recounting heroic deeds, traditionally composed in Dactylic Hexameter.

  • Iliad: Written by Homer, focuses on Achilles' rage and conflict with Agamemnon.

  • Odyssey: Follows Odysseus' journey home after the Trojan War, emphasizing his cunning.

Greek Values

• Glory (Kleos): Central pursuit in Greek life; defined by ambition, aggression, vengeance, and wealth.

  • Example: Dying nobly in battle is a route to achieving glory.

• Aristeia: A hero’s peak moments in combat, representing the pinnacle of glory.

• Respect (tīmē): Value and honor gained through bravery and skill, vital for self-worth in social hierarchies.

  • Ties to an “honor code” within communities, can foster competitive behavior.

Cultural Comparisons

Homeric Values

• Polytheistic, depicting fallible, deceitful gods.

• Life characterized by struggles for glory and respect.

• Heroes like Achilles and Odysseus are central figures.

Christian Values

• Monotheistic, viewing God as infallible, forgiving, and offering heaven.

• Focus on humility and ethical living, contrasting with Homeric ambition.

Sociopolitical Structures

Geometric Pottery

• A shift from Protogeometric styles with new designs reflecting cultural advancements.

• Often included zigzag, triangle, and crosshatch patterns.

Panhellenism

• Shared sanctuaries and festivals among Greek city-states, fostering a common Greek identity.

Kleros (pl. kleroi)

• Ancestral farmland essential for marriage and livelihood in Greek communities, especially Sparta.

Phalanx

• Military formation of hoplite soldiers standing shield to shield in tight ranks.

Spartan Society

• Ephor: Elected officials overseeing youth training and controlling helots.

• Apella: Assembly representing the citizenry in Sparta, where proposals were voted upon.

• Gerousia: Council of Elders influencing Spartan governance, comprised of men over 60.

• Agōgē: Spartan education system focusing on rigorous training for boys.

Historical Context

Bronze Age

• Early to Late Bronze Age: Development of social hierarchies, Mycenaean dominance in the Aegean, fall of Mycenae by 1100 BCE.

Iron Age

• Rise of the Greek Alphabet from Phoenician influence, marking significant cultural advancement.

Trojan War

• Legendary conflict sparked by the abduction of Helen, circa 1250-1225 BCE; validity debated.

Archaic Period

• Emergence of city-states (poleis), increased aristocratic power, development of political systems.

Olympic Games

• Established in 776 BCE, showcasing athletic prowess and community spirit.

Age of Tyrants

• Rise of strongmen in Greek city-states, often supporting lower classes against aristocratic privilege.

Key Individuals

• Solon: Reformer who modified property classes and structured Athenian democracy.

• Pisistratus: Tyrant who supported public works and arts while maintaining Solon's reforms.

• Cleisthenes: Implemented democratic changes by restructuring citizenship and governance in Athens.

Major Locations

Mycenae

• Center of early Greek civilization, significant for trade and military strength.

  • Characterized by palatial estates and complex social hierarchy.

Sparta

• Defined by military prowess, strict societal structure, emphasis on communal values, and unique education methods.

Athens

• Evolved from aristocratic rule to a broader democracy, playing a key role in Greek regional politics.