Greco-Roman Civilization Overview

Greco-Roman Civilization & Ancient Greece

• Greco-Roman civilization is based on Ancient Greece and Rome
• An introductory video is available at the link provided
• Learning objectives include understanding Greco-Roman civilization, ancient Greece's location, Athenian democracy, Greek city-states (Athens and Sparta), Greek gods and Olympics, Greek philosophy/literature, mathematics and science, and ancient Greek architecture.
• Map of Europe, Asia showing locations of early civilizations- Nile Valley, Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, and the Yangtze River.
• Ancient Greece's location is around the Mediterranean Sea. Crete, a region where Greek civilization began, is also highlighted.
• The civilization of Rome and Greece were the foundation of Western civilization.
• A timeline of ancient civilizations shows early civilization beginning around 4000 BCE, with Greek and Roman civilizations emerging later. Romans conquered Greece in 146 BC.
• Greco-Roman civilization influences modern life in mathematics (e.g., Roman numerals on watches), architecture (temples, columns, pediments), science, and philosophy.
• The Parthenon in Athens (5th Century BCE) is an example of ancient Greek architecture.
• The Colosseum in Rome (80 AD) shows Roman architecture with arches and corridors.
• Modern buildings like the Court of Final Appeal showcase the influence of Greco-Roman architecture.
• Ancient Greece's geography included mountains and valleys, impacting city-state formation.
• City-states were independent and self-governing. Some aspects, like forms of government, may have been similar in varying city-states.
• Athenian government was a democracy, where all free adult men could participate in decision-making. They voted in assemblies, and the Council carried out the decisions, potentially being chosen via lottery.
• Athenian democracy shares similarities with modern governments in terms of legislative bodies and the executive branch.
• A video on the government of Athens and democracy is available (link attached)
• An online activity through Socrative is planned for consolidation.
• A pre-lesson exercise on Sparta and Athens is a recommended preparation. This involves watching a video and answering multiple-choice questions.
• A DBQ exercise on Sparta and Athens comparisons is planned for the next lesson.
• Notes pp. 3–4 cover the comparison.
• DBQ skills include careful question reading, source selection, knowledge application, appropriate mark allocation, and concise answers using one's own words.
• Two sources (A & B) describe Athens and Sparta respectively. Key elements of each city-state are highlighted, including governing systems and the societal aspects.

Ancient Greece's Geography

• Ancient Greeks lived near the sea, in valleys, and on islands.
• The unique landscape of ancient Greece, with mountains and valleys, influenced the formation of distinct city-states.