What do you think was the most important legacy of ancient Greece? Explain and give specific examples.
http://ancienthistory.pppst.com/greece/achievements.html
http://history-world.org/greece%20legacy.htm
http://www.ioa-sessions.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=19&Itemid=26&lang=en
thanks ms sue :)
You're welcome, Bailey.
The most important legacy of ancient Greece is its profound influence on Western civilization. This influence can be seen across various fields, including philosophy, literature, politics, and art.
1. Philosophy: Ancient Greece was the birthplace of Western philosophy, with renowned philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Their teachings and ideas have shaped the way we think about knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality. For example, Plato's concept of the forms has influenced metaphysics, and Aristotle's logic and scientific method have had a lasting impact on the development of science.
2. Democracy: Ancient Greece is often credited as the birthplace of democracy. The city-state of Athens introduced a form of direct democracy where eligible citizens had equal political rights. This concept of citizen participation in government has inspired democracies around the world. The principles of democracy, such as the rule of law and the protection of individual rights, can be traced back to ancient Greece.
3. Literature: Greek literature has had a profound impact on Western literature. The epic poems of Homer, such as the Iliad and the Odyssey, are considered masterpieces and have inspired countless works of literature throughout history. Greek tragedies, like those written by playwrights Sophocles and Euripides, explored profound themes and influenced the development of drama.
4. Art and Architecture: Ancient Greece is renowned for its architectural achievements, with the development of the classical orders (Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian) serving as the basis for Western architecture. Greek art, particularly sculpture, emphasized the idealized human form and achieved a level of naturalistic representation that continues to be admired today. The Parthenon in Athens stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Greeks.
The lasting impact of ancient Greece can be attributed to its innovative ideas, intellectual pursuits, and enduring cultural achievements. To explore this legacy further, one can delve into the writings of ancient Greek philosophers, read translations of Greek literature, study Greek history, or visit museums and archaeological sites that preserve Greek artifacts and architecture.