Ancient Greece

Structure of the Plays

The basic structure of a Greek tragedy is fairly simple. After a prologue spoken by one or more characters, the chorus enters, singing and dancing. Scenes then alternate between spoken sections (dialogue between characters, and between characters and chorus) and sung sections (during which the chorus danced). Here are the basic parts of a Greek Tra...

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Battle of Plataea and Mycale

The Battles of Plataea and Mycale were two of the most important battles in the Greco-Persian Wars. They took place in 479 BC, and they marked the end of the second Persian invasion of Greece. Battle of Plataea The Battle of Plataea was fought between a Greek alliance led by Sparta and Athens, and a Persian army led by Mardonius. The Greeks had won...

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Images of Pottery

Because of the Greek painters' fondness for labeling individual characters in a legend, we are able in some instances to piece together parts of scenes from lost plays or obscure myths. Evidence for the way in which Greek tragedy and comedy was staged is also available through vase representations. Other depictions provide valuable information abou...

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The Myths Surrounding the Olympic Games

The Olympic Games, both ancient and modern, have been the subject of numerous myths and legends over the centuries. These myths often add a layer of mystique and grandeur to the games, shaping perceptions of their origin, purpose, and significance. Here are some of the myths surrounding the Olympic Games: 1. The Myth of Heracles and the First Olymp...

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Warfare in Ancient Greece

As the economic resources of Greek city-states and individuals increased during the seventh century B.C., armies of foot soldiers were formed within the wealthier city-states. Known as hoplites, these soldiers were characteristically equipped with about seventy pounds of armor, most of which was made of bronze. The typical panoply included an eight...

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Timeline of Ancient Greece

The Timeline of Ancient Greece is a chronological overview of the major events in Greek history from the Mycenaean civilization to the Roman conquest. It is a useful tool for understanding the development of Greek culture and society, and for seeing how Greece interacted with the wider world. Here is a brief overview of the key periods in Greek his...

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The Ancient Olympic Games Virtual Museum

The Ancient Olympic Games Virtual Museum is an online platform dedicated to preserving, exploring, and showcasing the history and heritage of the ancient Olympic Games. This virtual museum offers an immersive and educational experience, allowing visitors to delve into the world of the Olympics in antiquity from the comfort of their own devices. Ke...

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Ancient Greek Theater

Ancient Greek theater is a captivating and enduring cultural legacy that originated in ancient Greece during the 5th century BCE. It represents a remarkable fusion of art, entertainment, and philosophy that has left an indelible mark on the history of drama and theater. Here's a description of Ancient Greek theater: Birth of Drama: Ancient Greek th...

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Time Line of Greek History and Literature

Preclassical Period (c. 800–500 BCE) Literature: Homer writes the Iliad and the Odyssey, two epic poems that tell the stories of the Trojan War and the wanderings of Odysseus.History: The Greeks begin to colonize the Mediterranean region. Classical Period (500–323 BCE) Literature: Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides write some of the greatest trage...

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Ancient Greek Theater Timeline

The Ancient Greek Theater Timeline is a fascinating journey through the evolution of one of the most influential and enduring forms of artistic expression in the ancient world. Spanning several centuries, this timeline provides a comprehensive overview of the development of Greek theater, from its humble beginnings to its zenith as a cornerstone of...

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