Our second unit on ancient Greece will focus on the Spartans, Women, Warfare, the Persian Empire, and Alexander the Great. We'll take a thorough look at Spartan institutions, including the unique position of women in their society. Classical Greece was shaped by constant warfare, which came to an end with Philip II's conquest of Greece. The lasting influence of Greece is due largely to Alexander the Great's mission to spread Hellenistic culture throughout the Eastern Mediterranean region... and beyond!
Unit Guide and Primary Sources  |
"Eat well, for tonight we dine in Hades." |
Plato vs. Aristotle
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Before studying the ancient Spartans, it is helpful to review the philosophical teachings of Plato and Aristotle in reference to the relationship between the individual and society.
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E-Lecture Available on YouTube |
PowerPoint Presentation |
The Spartans
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The Spartans formed a very close-knit community centered around a core group of citizen soldiers. They credited their legendary lawgiver, Lycurgus, with the development of their unique governing institutions and family structure. All Spartan males went through the agoge, a very rigorous regimen of military training. The military lifestyle of Spartan men allowed Spartan women to enjoy greater freedom than their counterparts in other Greek city states.
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PowerPoint Presentation |
Persian and Peloponnesian Wars
The Persian Empire
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Although the Persians are commonly depicted as the adversary in the history of ancient Greece, the Persian Empire was one of the most humane and advanced societies that ever existed in the ancient world. While few people practice the Persian religion of Zoroastrianism today, its dualistic way of thinking influenced on the Abrahamic religions.
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PowerPoint Presentation |