The culture of ancient Greece – its unique way of life – encouraged creativity and excellence in all pursuits. From fierce athletic competitions to boldly ambitious educational programs, the Greeks aimed for the best in all things. In such an atmosphere, literature flourished. Greece is a small mountainous country. The Greeks championed individual freedom, developed an early form of democracy, and demonstrated the power of rational thought. Greek ideals of beauty and justice have spread throughout the world. Greek literature, especially poetry and drama, continues to inspire writers today. Jews, Christians, and Muslims, the religion of the ancient Greeks had no sacred writings (such as the bible) and no commandments. The Greeks developed a rich set of myths, or traditional stories, about their gods. Many Greek city-states expected all citizens to become involved in politics. The most extensive form of democracy in ancient Greece was found in Athens. Each year, 500 citizens were chosen at random to serve on the Council of Five Hundred, which proposed laws and advised the assembly. Greek sculptors were the first to portray the human body realistically. Greek forever influenced the art of the Western world. The ancient Greeks combined idealism – the quest for perfection – and realism to create works of great beauty. Even today, the influence of Greek architects, sculptors, and writers can be felt from the design of many of our public buildings to the staging of the latest drama. The Greeks greatly valued music. The ancient poems that we read today are essentially song lyrics whose melodies have been lost.
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