History Of Greece 3 In 1: Ancient Greek Mythology, Byzantium And Modern Greece

By A.J.Kingston

Welcome to the History of Greece book bundle! This comprehensive collection features three compelling books that will take you on a journey through the rich and fascinating history of Greece, from the ancient Mycenaean civilization to modern-day Greece.

Book 1, "From Mycenae to Marathon: A Comprehensive History of Ancient Greece," covers t

• Language: English
• Publisher: Pastor Publishing Ltd
• Release date: Apr 3, 2023
• ISBN: 9781839382727

Book preview

Introduction

Welcome to History of Greece, a bundle of three books that cover the rich and diverse history of Greece from ancient times to the present day. This collection offers a comprehensive overview of Greece's past, including its ancient civilizations, its Byzantine legacy, and its modern struggles and triumphs.

Book 1, From Mycenae to Marathon: A Comprehensive History of Ancient Greece, takes readers on a journey through the world of the ancient Greeks, exploring their legendary heroes, epic battles, and enduring cultural achievements. From the Bronze Age Mycenaeans to the classical Athenians, this book covers the major events and figures that shaped ancient Greece.

Book 2, Byzantium: The Rise and Fall of the Eastern Roman Empire, delves into the fascinating world of the Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire. This book covers the period from the fall of the Western Roman Empire to the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottomans in 1453, examining the political, cultural, and religious developments that defined this unique and influential civilization.

Book 3, Modern Greece: From Ottoman Rule to the Present Day, explores the struggles and triumphs of modern Greece, from its long period of Ottoman rule to its emergence as a modern, independent state in the 19th century. This book covers Greece's turbulent 20th century history, including the wars, dictatorships, and economic challenges that have shaped the country's modern identity.

Together, these three books offer a comprehensive and engaging history of Greece, providing readers with a deep understanding of the country's past and present. Whether you are a student of history, a lover of Greece, or simply curious about this remarkable nation, History of Greece is an essential read.

Book 1

From Mycenae to Marathon: A Comprehensive History of Ancient Greece

BY A.J. KINGSTON

Chapter 1: The Birth of Western Civilization

The early civilizations of Greece, the Minoans and the Mycenaeans, laid the foundations for Western civilization as we know it today. Their achievements in art, architecture, and technology set the stage for the development of later cultures, and their influence can be seen throughout the Mediterranean world. In this essay, we will examine the history and achievements of these two ancient civilizations, from their rise to their eventual decline.

The Minoan civilization, which flourished on the island of Crete from around 2000 BCE to 1450 BCE, was known for its advanced art, architecture, and trade networks. The Minoans were a seafaring people who relied on trade with other Mediterranean cultures for their wealth. They built large, intricate palaces that were decorated with colorful frescoes and adorned with sculptures of animals and humans.

One of the most famous Minoan sites is the palace of Knossos, which was discovered by British archaeologist Arthur Evans in the early 20th century. Knossos was a sprawling complex of buildings that covered more than six acres of land. It was decorated with frescoes depicting everything from bull-leaping contests to elaborate religious ceremonies. The palace also featured a complex system of plumbing and drainage, as well as underground storage rooms for storing grain and other foodstuffs.

The Minoans were also known for their writing system, which is known as Linear A. Unfortunately, the script has never been fully deciphered, so little is known about the Minoan language or the texts that were written in it. However, it is clear that the Minoans were sophisticated traders who conducted business with other cultures throughout the Mediterranean.

Despite their many achievements, the Minoans were eventually conquered by a group known as the Mycenaeans. The Mycenaeans were a more warlike people who were based on the Greek mainland. They were known for their impressive fortifications and their use of chariots in battle.

The Mycenaean civilization, which flourished from around 1600 BCE to 1100 BCE, is best known for its epic poetry, which was passed down through the generations and eventually compiled by Homer in the Iliad and the Odyssey. The Mycenaeans were also skilled metalworkers who produced intricate gold jewelry and weapons.

One of the most famous Mycenaean sites is the citadel of Mycenae, which was discovered by Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. Mycenae was a heavily fortified city that was surrounded by massive walls made of huge stones that had been carefully cut and fitted together. The city was also home to the famous Lion Gate, which was decorated with two stone lions that stood guard over the entrance.

The Mycenaeans were also skilled sailors who traded extensively with other Mediterranean cultures. They even established colonies in places like Sicily and southern Italy. However, their civilization was eventually brought down by a combination of internal strife and external invasion.

Despite their many differences, the Minoans and Mycenaeans both played a crucial role in the development of Western civilization. Their achievements in art, architecture, and technology set the stage for the Greeks, Romans, and other cultures that followed. The Minoans' sophisticated trade networks and the Mycenaeans' epic poetry and metalworking skills were particularly influential, and their legacy can be seen in everything from modern architecture to contemporary literature.

In summary, the Minoans and Mycenaeans were two of the most important civilizations in the ancient world. Their achievements in art, architecture, and technology helped to lay the foundations for Western civilization, and their legacy can still be seen today.

The emergence of the Greek city-state, or polis, was a pivotal moment in the history of Western civilization. From the eighth to the fifth centuries BCE, the Greeks developed a unique form of government that combined elements of democracy, aristocracy, and monarchy. This system, which was based on the idea of civic participation and the rule of law, would go on to influence political thought for centuries to come.

The city-state emerged in Greece as a result of a number of factors. One of the most important was geography. Greece is a mountainous country, with rugged terrain that makes communication and transportation difficult. This led to the development of small, isolated communities that were largely self-sufficient. Over time, these communities began to develop their own unique cultures and customs, and they came to see themselves as distinct from one another.

Another factor that contributed to the development of the city-state was economic growth. The Greeks were seafaring people who were engaged in extensive trade throughout the Mediterranean world. This led to the accumulation of wealth, which in turn allowed the Greeks to establish colonies and expand their influence. As they did so, they began to create a new kind of political organization that would eventually become the polis.

The polis was a unique form of government that was based on the idea of civic participation. In a polis, all citizens had a say in government, regardless of their social status. This was a radical departure from the monarchies and aristocracies that had dominated other cultures at the time. Instead of being ruled by a single individual or a small group of elites, the Greeks believed that everyone should have a voice in government.

One of the most famous examples of the polis was Athens. Athens was a bustling city that was home to some of the greatest minds in history, including Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates. It was also a democratic city-state that was run by a council of citizens. The council met regularly to discuss issues of importance to the city, and every citizen had the right to speak and vote on matters that affected them.

Another famous example of the polis was Sparta. Sparta was a militaristic city-state that was known for its harsh discipline and rigorous training. It was run by a council of elders, who were chosen for their wisdom and experience. Unlike Athens, Sparta did not have a formal system of democracy, but it was still based on the idea of civic participation. All citizens were expected to be active in the community, and they were required to participate in military training from a young age.

Despite their differences, both Athens and Sparta were based on the idea of civic participation. They believed that all citizens had a responsibility to contribute to the community, and they created systems of government that allowed everyone to have a voice. This was a radical departure from the monarchies and aristocracies of the time, and it set the stage for the development of democracy as we know it today.

The polis was not without its flaws, however. Because it was based on the idea of civic participation, it was often limited to a small group of citizens. Women, slaves, and non-citizens were often excluded from the political process, which meant that the polis was not truly democratic. It was also prone to internal strife, as different groups vied for power and influence.

Despite these challenges, the polis was a remarkable achievement. It was a new kind of government that was based on the idea of civic participation and the rule of law. It allowed for the development of new forms of art, literature, and philosophy, and it set the stage for the development of Western civilization.

The ancient Athenians are known for their groundbreaking experiment in democracy. From the fifth century BCE until the Macedonian conquest in the fourth century BCE, Athens was a city-state that was governed by the people. All citizens had a say in government, regardless of their social status. This was a radical departure from the monarchies and aristocracies that had dominated other cultures, and it set the stage for the development of democracy as we know it today.

The roots of Athenian democracy can be traced back to the reforms of the sixth-century BCE statesman Solon. Solon was a wealthy merchant who believed that the existing system of government, which was dominated by a small group of aristocrats, was unfair and oppressive. He proposed a series of reforms that would give more power to the people, including the right to participate in the assembly and serve on juries.

Solon's reforms laid the foundation for Athenian democracy, but it was not until the fifth century BCE that democracy truly flourished. This was a time of great political and cultural achievement for Athens, as the city-state rose to prominence as a major power in the Mediterranean world.

At the heart of Athenian democracy was the assembly. The assembly was a body of citizens who met regularly to discuss issues of importance to the city. All citizens were allowed to attend the assembly, which meant that even the poorest and most marginalized members of society had a voice in government. The assembly was responsible for passing laws, approving budgets, and making decisions on matters of war and peace.

In addition to the assembly, Athenian democracy was also characterized by a system of courts and juries. All citizens were eligible to serve on juries, which meant that they had a direct say in the administration of justice. This was a radical departure from other cultures, where the wealthy and powerful often controlled the courts.

The Athenians also had a system of magistrates who were responsible for enforcing the laws. These magistrates were chosen by lot, which meant that they were selected at random from a pool of eligible citizens. This ensured that no one person or group had too much power in the government.

One of the most famous examples of Athenian democracy was the trial of Socrates. Socrates was a philosopher who was accused of corrupting the youth and challenging the authority of the gods. He was brought to trial before a jury of 500 citizens, who listened to his defense and ultimately voted to convict him. Socrates was sentenced to death by drinking hemlock, but his trial and execution remain a testament to the power of Athenian democracy.

Despite its many achievements, Athenian democracy was not without its flaws. Women, slaves, and non-citizens were excluded from the political process, which meant that Athenian democracy was not truly democratic. It was also prone to demagoguery, as charismatic leaders like Pericles were able to sway the assembly through their rhetoric and charisma.

Despite these challenges, Athenian democracy remains one of the greatest experiments in political participation in the history of the world. It was a radical departure from the monarchies and aristocracies that had dominated other cultures, and it set the stage for the development of democracy as we know it today. The Athenians showed that it was possible to govern a society through the participation of all citizens, regardless of their social status. Their legacy can be seen in everything from modern constitutions to contemporary political movements. Athenian democracy was a true achievement, and it remains an inspiration to all those who believe in the power of the people.

The ancient Greeks are known for their great achievements in philosophy. From the sixth century BCE until the Hellenistic period in the fourth century BCE, Greek thinkers explored the nature of reality, the human condition, and the relationship between individuals and society. Their work laid the foundation for Western philosophy and helped to shape the way we think about the world.

Greek philosophy emerged in a cultural context that was steeped in myth and legend. The Greeks believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses who controlled the forces of nature and governed human affairs. This worldview was expressed in the myths and stories that were passed down from generation to generation. However, as the Greeks began to explore the world around them, they came to realize that their myths were not sufficient to explain the nature of reality.

The earliest Greek philosophers were known as the Pre-Socratics. They were concerned with questions of cosmology and metaphysics, and they sought to understand the fundamental principles that underlie the natural world. One of the most famous Pre-Socratics was Thales of Miletus, who believed that all matter was made of water. Another famous Pre-Socratic was Heraclitus, who believed that change was the fundamental principle of the universe.

The Pre-Socratics paved the way for the emergence of a new kind of philosophy that was based on reason and argumentation. This philosophy was known as the Sophists, and it was characterized by a focus on rhetoric and the art of persuasion. The Sophists believed that there was no absolute truth, and that all knowledge was relative to the individual.

However, it was the work of Socrates that truly revolutionized Greek philosophy. Socrates was a philosopher who was known for his Socratic method, which involved questioning assumptions and beliefs in order to arrive at a deeper understanding of truth. He believed that knowledge was the key to living a virtuous life, and that the pursuit of knowledge required constant questioning and self-examination.

Socrates' most famous student was Plato, who would go on to become one of the most influential philosophers in Western history. Plato believed that there was a realm of eternal Forms or Ideas that existed outside of the physical world. He argued that the purpose of philosophy was to understand these Forms and to use them to guide human behavior.

Plato's most famous work was the Republic, in which he outlined his vision of an ideal society. In the Republic, Plato argued that the rulers of a society should be philosophers, who had the wisdom and knowledge necessary to govern justly. He also believed that individuals should be educated in a way that would allow them to see the world as it truly is, rather than as it appears to be.

Another famous philosopher was Aristotle, who was a student of Plato. Aristotle believed that the world was made up of a series of natural causes and effects, and that it was possible to understand these causes through observation and reason. He developed a system of logic that was based on the idea of syllogism, and he believed that knowledge could be acquired through a process of deduction.

Aristotle's most famous work was the Nicomachean Ethics, in which he explored the nature of human virtue and happiness. He argued that virtue was the key to a fulfilling life, and that it could be developed through the practice of good habits and the cultivation of moral character.

Greek philosophy was a remarkable achievement that had a profound impact on the development of Western civilization. It was a radical departure from the mythological worldview that had dominated other cultures, and it set the stage for the development of rational thought and empirical inquiry. The Greeks showed that it was possible to use reason and argumentation to understand the world and to live a virtuous life. Their legacy can be seen in everything from modern science to contemporary philosophy.

The ancient Greeks were renowned for their extraordinary achievements in art and architecture. From the sixth century BCE until the Hellenistic period in the fourth century BCE, Greek artists and architects created some of the most beautiful and iconic works in human history. Their art and architecture were characterized by a focus on proportion, symmetry, and harmony, which made them some of the most aesthetically pleasing works of art ever created.

One of the most famous examples of Greek art is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena on the Acropolis in Athens. The Parthenon was built in the fifth century BCE and was designed by the architect Iktinos and the sculptor Phidias. The temple was built using a system of proportion known as the Golden Ratio, which is a mathematical ratio that is believed to be the most aesthetically pleasing to the human eye. The Parthenon is a masterpiece of Greek architecture, and it remains one of the most iconic buildings in the world.

Greek sculpture was also characterized by a focus on proportion and symmetry. Greek sculptors were known for their ability to create works that were perfectly balanced and harmonious. One of the most famous examples of Greek sculpture is the Discobolus, a statue of a discus thrower created by the sculptor Myron in the fifth century BCE. The Discobolus is a masterpiece of Greek sculpture, and it remains one of the most iconic works of art in the world.

Another famous example of Greek art is the Kouros, a type of statue that was popular in the Archaic period. Kouros statues were characterized by their idealized depiction of the human form. They were usually made of marble and were often used as grave markers. Kouros statues were highly stylized, with elongated proportions and a rigid posture. They were designed to convey the idea of youthful perfection and strength.

Greek art was not limited to sculpture and architecture, however. Greek artists also excelled in painting, ceramics, and metalwork. Greek pottery, in particular, was known for its beauty and craftsmanship. Greek potters created a wide variety of vessels, including amphorae, kraters, and kylikes. These vessels were often decorated with scenes from mythology or everyday life, and they were highly prized for their beauty and elegance.

Greek art was not just aesthetically pleasing, however. It also served important cultural and religious functions. Greek temples, for example, were not just places of worship. They were also places of communal gathering, where the citizens of a city-state could come together to celebrate their shared culture and identity. Greek sculpture and pottery were also used to tell stories from mythology and to celebrate the achievements of individuals and communities.

Greek art and architecture remain some of the most enduring and influential works of art in human history. They have inspired artists and architects for thousands of years, and they continue to captivate and inspire people around the world today. Greek art and architecture are a testament to the power of human creativity and imagination, and they serve as a reminder of the beauty and potential of the human spirit. The Greeks showed that it was possible to create works of art that were not just aesthetically pleasing, but that also served important cultural and social functions. Their legacy can be seen in everything from the columns of ancient temples to the paintings of modern artists. Greek art and architecture are a true achievement, and they remain a testament to the beauty and potential of human creativity.

Chapter 2: Myth, Legend, and Reality in Ancient Greece

Greek mythology is a rich and complex tradition that has captivated people for thousands of years. It is a collection of myths and legends that explore the nature of the world and the human condition. Greek mythology was born out of a culture that believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses who controlled the forces of nature and governed human affairs.

One of the most famous gods in Greek mythology is Zeus, the king of the gods. Zeus was believed to control the sky and the weather, and he was often depicted as a powerful and fearsome figure. He was also known for his many affairs with mortals and other gods, which often led to jealousy and conflict among the gods.

Another famous god is Poseidon, the god of the sea. Poseidon was believed to control the oceans and the creatures that lived in them. He was also associated with earthquakes and other natural disasters.

The goddess Athena was another important figure in Greek mythology. She was the goddess of wisdom and war, and she was often depicted wearing armor and carrying a spear. Athena was also associated with the city of Athens, which was named after her.

The gods and goddesses of Greek mythology were not the only important figures, however. There were also many heroes and demigods who played important roles in Greek mythology. One of the most famous heroes is Heracles, who was known for his incredible strength and bravery. Heracles was often depicted fighting monsters and completing impossible tasks.

Another famous hero is Theseus, who was known for his bravery and cunning. Theseus was the hero who defeated the Minotaur, a fearsome creature with the body of a man and the head of a bull.

The stories of Greek mythology were not just entertaining tales, however. They also served important cultural and religious functions. Greek myths were used to explain the natural world and to provide moral guidance to individuals and communities. The myths were also used to celebrate the achievements of individuals and communities, and to provide a sense of shared identity and culture.

Greek mythology has had a profound impact on Western culture. The myths and legends of ancient Greece have inspired countless works of art, literature, and music. They have also had a lasting impact on our language, with many words and phrases from Greek mythology still in use today.

The enduring appeal of Greek mythology can be attributed in part to its timeless themes and characters. The stories of the gods and heroes of ancient Greece continue to captivate and inspire people today, just as they did thousands of years ago.

In summary, Greek mythology is a rich and complex tradition that has captivated people for thousands of years. It is a collection of myths and legends that explore the nature of the world and the human condition. The gods and heroes of Greek mythology continue to inspire and fascinate people today, and their enduring appeal is a testament to the power of human imagination and creativity.

The Trojan War is one of the most enduring and fascinating stories in Western literature. The story of the war between the Greeks and the Trojans has been retold countless times in literature, art, and film. However, the true nature of the war remains shrouded in mystery and myth. The Trojan War was first chronicled by the ancient Greek poet Homer in his epic poem, the Iliad. But did the Trojan War actually happen, or was it just a myth?

According to the ancient Greek historian Herodotus, the Trojan War was a historical event that occurred around 1184 BCE. Herodotus believed that the war was fought over control of the ancient city of Troy, which was located in modern-day Turkey. According to Herodotus, the war lasted for ten years and was won by the Greeks.

However, other historians and scholars have questioned the historicity of the Trojan War. Some believe that the story of the war was just a myth, created by the ancient Greeks to explain the origins of their own culture and to provide a sense of shared identity and history.

One of the reasons that scholars have questioned the historicity of the Trojan War is the lack of archaeological evidence for the war. While there is evidence that Troy was a real city that was destroyed by fire around the time of the Trojan War, there is no conclusive evidence of a Greek invasion or of a ten-year war. Furthermore, the events described in the Iliad, such as the intervention of the gods and the heroic feats of the Greek heroes, are difficult to reconcile with the realities of ancient warfare.

Despite these challenges, many scholars believe that the Trojan War was at least partially based on historical events. They point to the fact that the story of the war was told and retold for centuries, suggesting that it had some basis in reality. They also point to the fact that the story of the war is consistent with what we know of ancient warfare, with battles fought between armies of heavily armed soldiers.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Trojan War is the way in which it has been retold and reinterpreted over the centuries. The story of the war has been told in countless different ways, with different authors and artists adding their own interpretations and embellishments to the story.

In the hands of the ancient Greek poets, the story of the Trojan War became a tale of heroism and tragedy, with brave warriors fighting for honor and glory. In the hands of modern authors and filmmakers, the story has been retold as a tale of love and betrayal, with the focus on the doomed romance between the Trojan prince, Paris, and the Greek queen, Helen.

The enduring appeal of the Trojan War lies in its timeless themes and characters. The story of the war explores the nature of heroism, the consequences of war, and the complexities of human relationships. The characters of the Trojan War, such as Achilles, Hector, and Odysseus, continue to captivate and inspire people today, just as they did thousands of years ago.

In summary, the true nature of the Trojan War remains shrouded in mystery and myth. While some believe that the war was a historical event, others question its historicity. However, the enduring appeal of the story lies not in its historicity, but in its timeless themes and characters. The story of the Trojan War continues to captivate and inspire people today, and its enduring legacy is a testament to the power of human imagination and creativity.

The Homeric Epics, the Iliad and the Odyssey, are among the greatest works of literature ever produced. The epics were composed by the ancient Greek poet Homer, who lived sometime between the 8th and 7th centuries BCE. The Iliad tells the story of the Trojan War, while the Odyssey tells the story of the Greek hero Odysseus and his long journey home after the war. While the epics are works of poetry, they also contain elements of history and provide a valuable window into the culture and society of ancient Greece.

The Homeric Epics are often regarded as the foundation of Western literature. They are a testament to the power of the human imagination and the enduring appeal of epic storytelling. The epics are full of larger-than-life characters, such as Achilles, Hector, and Odysseus, who embody the virtues and flaws of humanity. The epics also explore themes that continue to resonate with modern audiences, such as heroism, love, and the struggle for survival.

The Iliad and the Odyssey are also valuable historical documents. They provide a glimpse into the culture and society of ancient Greece, and they offer insights into the values and beliefs of the Greeks. The epics are full of descriptions of the daily life of the Greeks, from their social customs and religious practices to their weapons and armor.

The Homeric Epics are also valuable for their portrayal of warfare in ancient Greece. The Iliad, in particular, is a vivid depiction of ancient warfare, with detailed descriptions of battles and tactics. The epic portrays warfare as a brutal and unforgiving affair, with little regard for human life. However, the epic also portrays heroism as an essential element of warfare, with brave warriors fighting for honor and glory.

The Homeric Epics also provide a valuable window into the language and literature of ancient Greece. Homer's poetry is renowned for its beauty and complexity, and his use of metaphor and symbolism has inspired countless writers and artists throughout history. Homer's language is full of archaic words and phrases, which provide insights into the evolution of the Greek language over time.

While the Homeric Epics are works of poetry, they are also historical documents that provide a glimpse into the world of ancient Greece. The epics offer a valuable perspective on the culture and society of the Greeks, and they explore themes that continue to resonate with modern audiences. The enduring appeal of the Homeric Epics is a testament to their power and influence, and to the enduring legacy of ancient Greece.

The Oracle at Delphi was one of the most famous religious institutions in ancient Greece. The oracle was located at the sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi, a mountainous region in central Greece. The oracle was a place where people from all over Greece would come to seek guidance from the gods. The oracle was said to be able to predict the future, and its pronouncements were highly regarded by the ancient Greeks. However, the oracle was also shrouded in mystery and myth, and its true nature remains a subject of debate and speculation.

The origins of the oracle are lost in the mists of time. According to myth, the oracle was established by the god Apollo himself, who had defeated the serpent Python in the region and declared the site sacred to him. The oracle was said to be the mouthpiece of Apollo, and its priests were believed to be able to interpret his messages.

The oracle was famous for its cryptic pronouncements, which were often open to multiple interpretations. The oracle was known to speak in riddles and metaphors, and its pronouncements were often obscure and difficult to understand. This led to the development of a profession of interpreters, who would try to decipher the meaning of the oracle's words.

The oracle was consulted by people from all walks of life, from kings and generals to ordinary farmers and traders. The oracle was believed to be able to predict the future, and its pronouncements were often taken very seriously. Kings and generals would consult the oracle before going to war, and traders would consult the oracle before embarking on risky ventures.

The oracle was also a source of political power. The priests of the oracle were highly respected and influential, and their pronouncements could have a significant impact on political decisions. The oracle was known