Greek and Roman Civilizations - Essay Example

The classical period emphasized the shift from depicting gods and goddesses with their ideal forms into human beings in their natural state. This has been continued in the Hellenistic period yet “the artist of the Hellenistic era expanded his formal horizons with dramatic posing, sweeping lines, and high contrast of light, shadow and emotions” (Greek Art 2. From the simple depiction of Poseidon or Zeus in the classical era, Hellenistic art comes up with more dramatic masterpieces such as the sculpture of Antinous which imparts deeper emotion. It should also be noted that the “subtle implications of greatness and humility of the classical era are replaced with bold expressions of energy and power” (Greek Art 3). The classical period’s Charioteer of Delphi even though recognized for the severity of movements is relatively static when compared to the Hellenistic period’s Boy Jockey which highlights tension.

2. Briefly discuss the relationship between Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle are considered the three greatest thinkers in Greece. These thinkers have been influenced by one another because of their close relationship. Socrates is a man who despised Sophists and devoted his time to dialectics gaining a flock of wealthy students. Plato is Socrates’ prized student who transcribed his conversations with his mentor. In the same way, Aristotle is Plato’s student who opposes some of his ideas yet agrees with him on some points (Boeree 10-30).
3. What are the three most important contributions made by Rome to Western civilization? Cite at least three examples – one for each contribution – to support your answer.

Unlike the Greeks, the Romans leave no significant contribution to art and abstract thought. However, I believe that the Romans should be credited for their introduction of a more efficient government, paving the way for Christianity, and the diffusion of culture. It should be noted that the Roman Republic is a political system that mimics the democracy of Greece yet is more efficient in ruling a larger population. Using Christianity to unite the empire, Rome becomes the main purveyor of the religion. Also, the wide scope of the empire due to the various city-states conquered facilitated the diffusion of culture among cities thus becoming a melting pot of tradition, language, and beliefs. Read More