Overview
This lecture outlines the evolution of Athenian democracy, cultural achievements during the Classical period, and the impact of political changes and wars on Greek society, art, and philosophy.
Kleisthenes’ Reforms and Early Democracy
- Kleisthenes’ reforms (507 BC) established the demos (citizen body) as an autonomous political entity in Athens.
- These reforms created the foundation for the world’s first democratic process.
Persian Wars and the Rise of Athens
- Greek victories in the Persian Wars (490–479 BC) marked Athens’ transition from the Archaic to the Classical period.
- Athens became an economic and cultural center with a strong democratic system.
- The First Athenian League (478/7 BC), formed to protect Ionian Greeks, increased Athens’ power and influence.
Democratic Reforms and Civic Participation
- Ephialtes’ reforms (462/1 BC) and Pericles’ policies (451/0 BC) strengthened democracy and the role of the demos.
- Archons (magistrates) were chosen by lot and held accountable for their actions, increasing citizen involvement in government.
Classical Art and Architecture
- The Parthenon (447–432 BC) exemplified Classical art, blending divine and human elements.
- Sculpture featured more natural movement and realistic human forms.
- The red-figure vase painting style, developed around 530 BC, depicted both mythological and everyday life scenes.
Literature, Philosophy, and Historical Writing
- Tragedies by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides explored human concerns.
- Comedies by Aristophanes offered sharp social commentary.
- Philosophers like the Sophists, Democritus, Anaxagoras, and Socrates engaged in critical reflection.
- Herodotus and Thucydides developed historical consciousness, documenting key events like the Peloponnesian War (431–404 BC).
Decline and Shifts in Power
- The defeat of Athens by Sparta led to social and artistic turmoil, with a focus on emotion and decoration in art.
- By the 4th century BC, both Athens and Sparta lost dominance; Persian influence grew, and Macedonia under Philip II rose to power after the Battle of Chaeronea (338 BC).
- Athens faced economic decline and reduced exports of vases.
- Art increasingly depicted passion and sensuality.
Philosophical Legacy
- Plato’s theory of Ideas introduced a transcendental approach to life’s concepts.
- Aristotle combined empirical observation with philosophy, laying the foundation for scientific research.
- The influence of Plato and Aristotle persisted into modern times.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Demos — the body of Athenian citizens empowered to govern.
- Archon — a chief magistrate in Athens, chosen by lot after Pericles' reforms.
- First Athenian League — alliance led by Athens for mutual protection against Persia.
- Red-figure style — an Athenian vase painting technique allowing detailed human depiction.
- Theory of Ideas — Plato’s philosophical concept asserting the existence of abstract, perfect forms.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review key reforms by Kleisthenes, Ephialtes, and Pericles.
- Study the significance of the Parthenon and red-figure vase painting.
- Read about the philosophical contributions of Plato and Aristotle.