Ancient Greek Polis Flashcards

Polis

• Term used to describe ancient Greek city-states, notably including Classical Athens.
• Represents a tight-knit community of citizens agreeing on customs and rules.
• Typically centered around a small urban area, with a surrounding countryside (chora).

Importance of the Greek Polis

• Body of citizens became the most significant aspect of the term "polis."
• Citizens referred to themselves using terms like Athenians and Lacedaemonians instead of just naming the cities.

Homer

• Renowned ancient Greek poet known for the epic poems, "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey."
• Traditionally believed to have been blind; regarded as highly influential in literature.

Historical Significance of Homer

• Name derived from Greek "Ομηρος" (Homeros), meaning "hostage" or "pledge."
• His works detail significant events like the Trojan War and the adventures of Odysseus.

Influence of Homer on Greek Culture

• Provided a unified set of values reflecting Greek self-perception.
• Established models of heroism and the ideal life, influencing social and aristocratic standards.

Euripides

• Acclaimed ancient Greek dramatist known for tragedies such as "Medea," "The Bacchae," and "The Trojan Women."
• Often incorporated the deus ex machina device to resolve narratives.

Major Works of Euripides

• Renowned for innovative storytelling, altering traditional myths and depicting the flaws of heroes and gods.

Athens

• Capital and largest city of Greece, located in east-central Greece on the Attica plain.
• Named after Athena, its patron goddess; serves as a cultural and economic hub.

Athens' Prominence

• Known for the Acropolis and the Parthenon, housing a statue of Athena and symbolizing Athenian grandeur.
• A leading city of ancient Greece, particularly influential in the 5th century BC.

Ancient Athenians

• Emerged as the foremost city of ancient Greece, significantly shaping Western civilization.

Sparta

• Ancient Greek city-state known for a militaristic society and rigorous citizen training.
• Defeated Athens in the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BC), resulting in its temporary dominance.

Decline of Sparta

• Suffered significant casualties in war; lost its influence after defeat by Thebes at the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BC.

Founding of Sparta

• According to Greek tradition, founded by Lacedaemon, a son of Zeus and the mortal Taygete.