why were the Greeks called Hellas and Hellenes?
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https://www.thoughtco.com/why-are-the-greeks-called-hellenes-117769
The Greeks were known as "Hellas" and "Hellenes" because these terms originated from the ancient Greek language. Here is an explanation of each term:
1. Hellas: The term "Hellas" refers specifically to the territory of ancient Greece. It is derived from the Proto-Greek word "Hēraclás," which means "land of the Hellenes." The Romans, who would later conquer Greece, Latinized the term to "Graecia" (Greece), which is the commonly used name in Western languages today.
2. Hellenes: "Hellenes" originated from the word "Hellas." It refers to the ethnic group of people who lived in ancient Greece. The term "Hellenes" is used to distinguish the ancient Greeks from other civilizations during that time, such as the Persians or Egyptians. The Hellenes shared a common language, culture, and identity.
To understand why the Greeks were called Hellas and Hellenes, it's helpful to explore the historical and linguistic context of ancient Greece. If you want more in-depth information, you can refer to ancient Greek literature, historical texts, or academic resources that study the civilization of ancient Greece.