In ancient times, Greek language, culture, and mythology spread throughout the Mediterranean region. Traditional figures, such as the goddess Athena, were featured in art and on pottery and other household objects. In time, ancient Greek civilization was absorbed by the more powerful Romans. Because the Romans imitated Greek culture in many ways, the achievements of the Greeks in politics, philosophy, and literature were passed on through the centuries. In this way, the ancient Greeks continue to influence Western civilization.
Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle established the foundations of Western philosophy. Herodotus and Thucydides created the discipline of history. Our Western literary forms are derived from Greek poetry and drama. Greek notions of harmony and proportion have remained the standards for Western art and architecture. Despite these achievements, the Greeks were unable to rise above rivalries that caused them to fight and undermine their own civilization. The independent Greek city-states were conquered by the Macedonians. Greek culture survived, but in a new form.
Students will be able to:
Explain how geography affected the settlement of Greece.
Identify what contributed to the development of the Minoan civilization.
Determine how the Mycenaeans became a powerful military force.
Explain how Greek culture spread to other parts of the world.
Describe the different types of government that developed among the Greek city-states.
Explain why Sparta became a military society.
Describe what characteristics made Athens unique.
Identify the location of the Persian Empire.
Explain how the Greeks won the Persian Wars.
Explain the difference between Athenian democracy and American democracy.
Identify characteristics of life in Athens.
Organize information about Greek gods and goddesses.
Explain the ideas that the ancient Greeks expressed in their literature, drama, art, and architecture.
Describe ancient Greek philosophy.
Discuss the philosophy and life of Socrates.
Compare and contrast Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
Compare and contrast the qualities of a great military leader and an effective ruler.
Categorize Alexander’s leadership qualities and military achievements.
Analyze the culture from the Hellenistic Era.
Explain the meaning of Hellenistic.
Identify the contributions from the Hellenistic Era.