Greek Geography
Why were communities isolated?
Communities were isolated because it was very difficult to cross the mountains and seas to get to each other.
Which kingdom took over Greece's democracy for a period of time?
The Macedonians took over, and assemblies still took place BUT people were too afraid to bring up issues and pass laws that the Macedonian king did not approve.
What beliefs did Greeks have about gods and every day life?
Greeks believed in many gods, and believed in honoring them. They believed gods were to blame for everything, including both bad and good events.
What is a peninsula?
Greece is a peninsula, which means it is surrounded by water on 3 sides.
What was life like in the polis?
The polis had a market place, which was used for political and religious meetings. A fortress was built on top of an acropolis. The city was surrounded by additional walls for protection.
Who is Cleisthenes?
He is considered the "Father of Democracy."
Who is Hercules? And, how does he relate to mythology?
He is a very popular hero from a Greek myth that has now been turned into several movies. It is the story of the son of God Zeus who is half human, who is able to kill terrible monsters here on Earth.
Mythology is the story of Greek gods and heroes that are used to explain how the world works.
Define tyranny.
Tyranny is an abuse of power. It used to be considered a good thing, but tyrants are NOT GOOD NOW.
What is the difference between the Dark Age and the Classical Period?
The Dark Age was a period of time that Greeks experienced terrible events, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and invasions. There is no form of writing or documents found during this period of time. The Classical Period came next. This was when Greece became successful again, and started to achieve new inventions.
Who are Draco and Solon?
Draco and Solon were two aristocratic leaders. Draco was not liked because he was too strict with his laws and punishments. Solon was better liked because he was less strict and was willing to give power to other people besides aristocrats.
What are the two most epic poems?
Iliad and Odyssey written by Homer
What is the difference between a polis and an acropolis?
A polis is a Greek city-state, whereas acropolis is the fortress on the highest point in the city.
What are the two ancient Greek civilizations, and how are they different?
There were Minoans and Macedonians. The Minoans were the best shipbuilders of their time, but the Macedonians are actually the first people to ever speak Greek.
How is oligarchy related to aristocrats?
Oligarchy was the government in Ancient Greece, run by only a small group of people. The people in charge were aristocrats, who were rich, white males. The small group of aristocrats made decisions and laws for all of Greece.
What is the difference between a fable and a lyric?
A fable is a story that teaches you a moral lesson, whereas a lyric is a poem set to music.
What is the agora?
Agora is the marketplace. This is where farmers sold their goods. It was a large open space in the middle of the market, but it was also used for political and religious meetings.
What were the Greek lands like?
Greece is very mountainous, surrounded by seas. There was little flatland for farming.
How is the US government different from the government in Ancient Greece? Why can't we have the same government?
The US has a representative democracy, while Ancient Greece had a direct democracy. The direct democracy won't work in the US because we have too many people to hold meetings and directly vote on issues.
How does Greek literature affect our lives today?
We have a lot of movies that are about ancient Greek events and gods. Many of our sports teams are named after Greek gods and things, and many of our English words come from the Greeks.
What were Greek assemblies? What were they like?
Greek assemblies were political meetings held outside of the city, on a hilltop, so that anyone can attend. Anywhere between 500 and 5,000 people went to assemblies to discuss important issues, pass laws, and vote. The only people who could vote were the white, male citizens who paid taxes.