Persian Wars
Dates of the Persian Wars
499 - 449 BCE
Temple dedicated to Athena on the Acropolis; considered the finest example of classical Greek architecture
Parthenon
Student of Socrates (427–347 BCE); wrote dialogues and founded the Academy, one of the first institutions of higher learning in the West
Plato
The two sides of the Peloponnesian War
Athens & Sparta
Tutored Alexander from age 13–16 where he studied philosophy, science, medicine, and literature, influencing his appreciation for Greek culture
Aristotle
Two sides of the Persian Wars
Persian Empire & Greek City States
Type of drama dealing with serious themes such as fate, justice, and the gods’ role in human life
Tragedy
Teaching style developed by Socrates, based on asking questions to challenge assumptions and encourage deeper thinking
Socratic Method
Dates of the Peloponnesian War
431 - 404 BCE
Alexander’s father; united Macedonia, strengthened the army with the phalanx, and prepared the empire for conquest
Phillip II
Alliance of Greek city-states led by Athens after the Persian Wars to defend against future invasions; later used by Athens to build an empire
Delian League
Athenian leader who sponsored major cultural and building projects, including the Parthenon
Pericles
Plato’s story that explains how most people mistake appearances (shadows) for reality and must seek true knowledge
Allegory of the Cave
Athenian leader at the start of the war; strategy relied on naval superiority and city walls
Pericles
Alexander was welcomed as a liberator; founded the city of Alexandria, which became a major cultural center
Conquest of Egypt (332 BCE)
Naval battle where the Athenian-led Greek fleet defeated the Persians by luring them into narrow straits. Turning point in the war
Battle of Salamis (480 BCE)
Playwright known for questioning traditions and highlighting strong emotions and realistic characters
Euripides
The art of persuasive speaking and writing; studied and practiced in Athens, influenced by philosophers
Rhetoric
Temporary truce (421 BCE) between Athens and Sparta that ultimately failed to end the war
Peace of Nicias
Alexander’s famous horse, tamed as a youth, and accompanied him in many battles
Bucephalus
Spartan king who led the Greek defense at Thermopylae; remembered for his bravery and sacrifice
Leonidas
Legacy of Athenian Culture (A.S.T.)
Architecture, Sculpture, & Theatre
Study of the nature of reality and existence; a major area in Plato’s and Aristotle’s philosophy
Metaphysics
Failed Athenian invasion of Sicily; major defeat that weakened Athens
Sicilian Expedition (415–413 BCE)
Name one of the 3 major battles in which Alexander the Great defeated Persian King Darius III in
Battle of Granicus (334 BCE), Battle of Issus (333 BCE), Battle of Gaugamela (331 BCE)