Ancient Greece impacted the world in more ways than one
Ancient Greece is undoubtedly one of the first important civilizations in Europe. For the unversed, The Classical era was during the 5th and 6th-century BC. It not only saw the Greeks at its zenith but apogee and this particular period had a tremendous influence on the world, especially the Western culture. Take a look at some of the ways in which it did so:
Art
We all know that ancient Greece has had a deep influence on art. Ancient Greeks developed the idea of aesthetic beauty and thereby created spectacular sculptures, which have inspired artists from the Renaissance until today. Greek mythology too has been a major inspiration for European painters.
Government
Ancient Greece was divided into city-states and their concept has inspired many political systems we know today. In fact, the idea of a democratic nation was invented in Athens and it believed that every citizen (at that time only non-slave males) had the right to vote and speak at the assembly. They were responsible for laws and decisions that were made.
Architecture
Ancient Greek architecture, which involved the use of columns and pediments, has inspired architecture around the world. In fact, several modern-day public buildings, such as parliament buildings, museums etc make use of Greek architecture. If you have seen the Acropolis of Athens or the sanctuary of Delphi, you know what we mean.
Sports
You’ve guessed it right! Ancient Greece gave us the Olympic Games, which is the phenomenal sporting gala which happens annually till today. It was actually invented around 776 BC and held every four years in Olympia, in Peloponnese. They lasted for about a 1,000 years and only were abolished when Christianity reached Greece. The idea of a marathon was also announced in ancient Greece.
Literature
Ancient Greeks and their complex literature influences us to this day. For instance, the epic poetry, which was used to depict the story of a hero, still forms a part of several literary works. We all know the oldest surviving epic poetry, namely the Iliad and the Odyssey, written by Homer. It was during the Classical era that ancient Greek literature rose to heights. The works of Greek philosophers Plato, Aristotle and Socrates till date influence literature.
Sciences
Ancient Greeks were the ones who made significant discoveries in the field of geometry, astronomy, mathematics and medicine.
