“…Our city is an excellent place to be. We are lovers of the beautiful, yet we have simple tastes. We cultivate the mind without losing our strength. We use our wealth for our needs, not for show. To be poor is no disgrace; the true disgrace is doing nothing to avoid poverty. A citizen does not put his private affairs before the affairs of the city; even our warriors know something about politics. We believe that a man who takes no interest in public affairs is more than useless, he is harmful. Our enemies believe that discussions and debate prevent action, but we believe understanding an issue is essential before taking action. As Athenians we take great pride in thinking before we act.” Pericles speech to Athenian Assembly, 330 BC
“This is my shield. I bear it before me into battle, But it is not mine alone. It protects my brother on my left. It protects my city. I will never let my brother out of its shadow, nor my city out of its shelter. I will die with my shield before me facing the enemy.” Spartan creed
Alexander carried the ideas of the Greeks and their love of learning throughout his empire. It was because of Alexander that Greek or “Hellenic” culture was to flourish throughout the ancient world for hundreds of years to come.
As the birthplace of western civilization ancient Greece has had a profound impact upon history in general and who we are as a nation specifically. A. Describe Athenian democracy and its influence upon American government. Include similarities as well as differences between Athenian democracy and American democracy. OR: B. Greek history is rife with conflict and war. Choose one conflict in Greek history that had great lasting effect. Chronicle the specific details regarding the conflict (who, when, why) and detail the legacy of its outcome. Follow proper ORQ format (topic sentences, concluding statements, supporting evidence etc). Use the previous page, notes, text books, in class discussions and credible websites as resources for specific details and evidence to support your argument. All answers should be typed, size 12-14 font, 1.5 or double spaced and no longer than ONE page. Due date Monday May 13. If sending via email attachment:
[email protected] Include your name & class/period # in subject line.
