Abstract
This paper discusses the significant contributions made by people who lived during three important periods in history: the Mycenaean, Hellenic, and Hellenistic civilizations. The essay will provide details about the geographic area in which each civilization was established, prominent figures of that time period, and their major achievements. The main points and sub-points for this paper will be outlined.
Compare Greek History
It is an interesting fact that according to Aristotle, the origin of the word ‘Greek’ is ‘Graikoi’, which referred to the ‘Hellenes’. The Hellenes are actually Greeks, and the term ‘Hellas’ refers to the Greek people. (Barrett, Matt (n.d.))
Greek history offers many surprises for those interested in history and facts. The Mycenaean, Hellenic, and Hellenistic periods of Greek history are significant parts of this ancient culture. For instance, consider the Mycenaean civilization; it encompasses Greece’s art and culture from approximately 1600 to 1100 BC.
The civilization’s geographic focus is Mycenae in the Peloponnese, which was once the seat of the great Agamemnon – one of the famed figures of that time. One significant event during this period is the Trojan War. Historians generally prefer to use Homer’s descriptions of that time and relate them to Heinrich Schliemann’s excavations carried out during mid-1870s. These excavations showed the world extraordinarily wealthy and opulent artifacts and objects of art that were used by people at that time. The paper’s outline must contain examples of these artifacts while delving into the history of that period, with special mention given to the famed Trojan War.
During the Mycenaean period, the Greeks maintained contact with the Minoan Cretes, and their influence spread throughout Greece. Cities such as Mycenae, Tiryns, Thebes, and Athens displayed immense prosperity and riches. These are evident in the pottery of the time, as well as in bronze artifacts, carved gems and jewelry, and glass ornaments.
The Mycenaean period showcased architectural splendor through its forts, bridges, tombs, and advanced drainage and irrigation systems. Historians assert that the Minoans had a significant and beneficial impact on the Mycenaean people. This influence shaped the period into a civilization as we understand it today. As sub-points, an essay should include relevant information regarding the Minoans and their effect on Mycenaean culture. (Timeline of art history,” 2008)
The Hellenic Period of Greek history is often referred to as the classic period” of Greek culture. This is due to the undeniable fact that it was during this time that the Greeks experienced a cultural blossoming and unrivaled economic prosperity. An essay on this topic could delve into various areas, such as drama, philosophy, and sculpture, highlighting the refinements that occurred as a result of these cultural changes.
The primary focus of the Hellenic period is in Macedonia, where Alexander the Great was born in 356 BC. Historians acknowledge Aristotle’s influence on the young Alexander, as it was Aristotle who taught him about Greek culture and ideals, inspiring in him an everlasting love for literature. This can form the basis for part of an essay on this period. (Koeller, David (1999))
Alexander is acknowledged as the individual who brought Greek ideas and culture to the countries he conquered through his brave exploits. Apparently, as a young boy, he was fascinated with the story of the Iliad and adopted Achilles as his role model. In his attempt to conquer Persia, Alexander captured Asia Minor before marching on to Syria. These exploits, specifically Alexander’s campaigns in Turkey, Phoenicia, Israel, Egypt and India can form the subtopics of this essay. Upon capturing Egypt, he found a warm welcome there and named the area between Lake Mareotis and the Mediterranean Sea ‘Alexandria’.
The Battle of Arbela took place in Babylon during the Hellenic period and is often considered one of the most decisive battles in history. After capturing Persepolis, Alexander set the city on fire but not before taking all the vast wealth of silver and gold that he found there. Alexander continued his exploits and eventually reached India where he defeated Porus. He is credited with bringing Greek culture, laws, and customs to all the places that he conquered. (Alexander the Great,” 1997)
After Alexander’s death in 323 BCE, the period in Greek history known as the ‘Hellenistic period’ began. This was a time when many generals of Alexander fought each other for wealth, glory, and fame. In fact, this infighting weakened the Hellenistic kingdoms and eventually led to their absorption by the first Parthian Kings and later by the Romans. The decline of the Hellenic Empire had actually begun after the Peloponnesian War and continued during this period. Prominent figures of this time include Socrates and his student Plato.
The Hellenistic period was divided into three main parts: Egypt ruled by Ptolemy, Seleucia which included modern-day Israel, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and Syria ruled by Seleucus; Macedon; and Greece.
The Hellenistic period witnessed the establishment of a prominent University of learning in Alexandria, Egypt. During this era, wise individuals exchanged ideas between India and West Asia. Numerous philosophers and scientists traveled between India and Greece to share knowledge and acquire new insights. Historians believe that this exchange led to significant advancements in science, philosophy, and art during the Hellenistic period. These categories can serve as subtopics for this section, allowing the essay to explore specific accomplishments within each field.
It is important to remember that the history of Greece can be traced back to the Stone Ages. The Mycenaean civilization emerged after this era, followed by the Dark Ages. However, civilization began to flourish during the Hellenic and Hellenistic periods. These three periods in Greek history demonstrate various achievements in art, architecture, sculpture, literature, philosophy as well as advancements in science and technology.
The various philosophical leaders of the time had a great and long-lasting influence on the world. This is probably why we tend to attribute the term advances in art, literature, and philosophy” to ancient Greeks. The Mycenaean, Hellenic, and Hellenistic periods of Greek history are closely interrelated and can be seen as typically “Greek” and indicative of the advances made during that time in history. (“Time Periods,” 2008)
The essay must cover all the main points detailed above and include the subtopics explained. This will ensure a comprehensive treatise on the Mycenaean, Hellenic, and Hellenistic periods can be made, ultimately leading to a conclusion.
References
- Alexander the Great” (1997). Retrieved on March 10, 2008 from http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Forum/8740/Alexander.htm.
- Koeller, David (1999). “The Hellenic Period.” Retrieved on March 10, 2008 from http://www.thenagain.info/webchron/Mediterranean/Hellenic.html.
- Barrett, Matt (n.d.). “History of Greece.” Retrieved on March 10, 2008 from http://www.ahistoryofgreece.com/.
- “Hellenistic Period” (2006). Anatolia. Retrieved on March 10, 2008 from http://www.ancientanatolia.com/historical/hellenistic_period.htm.
- “Timeline of art history” (2008). Mycenaean Civilization. Retrieved on March 10, 2008 from http://www.metmuseum.org/TOAH/HD/myce/hd_myce.htm.
- “Time Periods” (2008). Ancient Greece. University Press Inc. Retrieved on March 10, from http://www.ancientgreece.com/s/History/.
