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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.