| Ancient Greece Essay Test |
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| www.studenthandouts.com > World History > Ancient Greece > Ancient Greece Miscellany |
| Students select an essay topic from among six options. The grading rubric is laid out, allowing students to know precisely what is required, while also providing teachers with a convenient grading sheet. |
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Five-Paragraph Essay: Select and answer one of the following questions. 1. Illustrate three ways in which geography influenced Greek history. 2. Select three English phrases and explain how they came to the English language from the Greek. 3. Describe Greek contributions to Western civilization in the fields of mathematics, philosophy, and science. 4. Explain the contributions of three of the following to Athenian democracy: Draco, Solon, Clisthenes, and Pericles. 5. Describe the impact of Alexander the Great in terms of his conquests, spread of Greek culture, and legacy. 6. Describe three forces which united the Greeks. |
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Geography played a significant role in shaping the history and development of ancient Greece. Here are three ways in which geography influenced ancient Greek history.
Mountainous Terrain: Greece is characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain, with the Pindus mountain range in the north and the Peloponnese peninsula in the south. This geography resulted in the fragmentation of Greek city-states. Each city-state, or polis, was often situated in a valley or along the coast, isolated by natural barriers like mountains. The mountainous landscape limited agricultural land, which encouraged trade, colonization, and the establishment of independent city-states. The isolation of these city-states contributed to their distinct political and cultural developments, as they were largely self-governing and had different systems of government, laws, and traditions. Mild Climate and Sea Access: Greece's Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and warm, dry summers, allowed for outdoor activities, including agriculture and the development of a healthy citizenry. The Mediterranean Sea, with its numerous islands and deep harbors, played a crucial role in the maritime activities of the ancient Greeks. They became skilled seafarers, traders, and colonizers, establishing colonies across the Mediterranean and Black Seas. This maritime focus influenced Greek trade, culture, and the spread of their influence throughout the ancient world. The sea also shaped Greek naval power and their victories in conflicts like the Persian Wars. Influence on Cultural Development: The Greek landscape, with its striking natural beauty, influenced the culture, art, and mythology of the ancient Greeks. The Greeks often found inspiration in the natural world around them, with the picturesque landscapes of the Mediterranean, the mountains, and the coastlines reflected in their art, literature, and architectural designs. For example, Greek art and architecture were marked by a focus on symmetry and proportion, which mirrored the balance and harmony found in their natural surroundings. The rugged terrain also influenced Greek mythology, as mountains, caves, and landscapes were often linked to the tales of gods and heroes. Overall, geography was a fundamental factor in the development of the Greek city-states, their unique political systems, cultural achievements, and their interactions with the wider world. It shaped their identities and played a key role in their historical trajectory. |
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