Ancient World History of Romans and Greeks Lesson

This lesson explains key facts about ancient Romans and Greeks to help you prepare for quiz questions on their governments, culture, and important historical figures.

Government in Ancient Athens: Democracy

Ancient Athens is known as the birthplace of democracy. In this system, citizens voted directly on laws and leaders. Power belonged to the people rather than a king or dictator.

Example: Citizens gathered in assemblies to vote on public decisions.

Quick Tip: Democracy means people hold the power to make decisions.

Hippocratic Oath and Abortion Mention

The original Hippocratic Oath, taken by ancient Greek doctors, included a statement against performing abortions. This shows abortion was recognized but restricted in ancient medicine. Modern versions of the oath do not mention abortion.

Example: Ancient physicians promised not to give abortive treatments.

Quick Tip: The Hippocratic Oath has changed over time.

Meaning of Greek Word "euanggelion"

The Greek word "euanggelion" means "good message" or "gospel." It refers to the message of salvation in Christian texts. This word reflects Greek influence on religious language.

Example: The Christian gospel is called "euanggelion" in Greek.

Quick Tip: "Euanggelion" means good news or gospel.

Odysseus and the Sirens' Myth

Odysseus avoided danger by tying himself to the ship's mast. His men had wax in their ears to block the sirens' song. This allowed Odysseus to hear without being lured to danger.

Example: Odysseus heard the sirens but stayed safe by being tied.

Quick Tip: Tying to the mast kept Odysseus safe from the sirens.

First Words of the Hippocratic Oath

The Hippocratic Oath begins with "I swear by Apollo the physician." Apollo was the Greek god of healing, linking medicine to religion in ancient Greece.

Example: Doctors swore by Apollo when taking the oath.

Quick Tip: Apollo is the god of healing in the oath.

Rivalry That Led to the Peloponnesian War

The Peloponnesian War was fought between Sparta and Athens. Sparta had a strong army; Athens had a powerful navy. Their rivalry led to a long war that weakened both.

Example: Sparta and Athens fought for control of Greece.

Quick Tip: Sparta and Athens were rivals leading to war.

Birth of Jesus Relative to King Herod's Death

Jesus was born before King Herod died. Herod died around 4 BC; Jesus was likely born slightly before that. This timing is important for biblical history.

Example: Jesus lived during Herod's reign.

Quick Tip: Jesus was born before Herod's death.

Language Jesus Spoke vs. New Testament Language

Jesus likely spoke Aramaic, a Hebrew dialect. The New Testament was written in Greek, the common language in the Eastern Mediterranean then. This helped spread Christian ideas widely.

Example: Jesus spoke Aramaic; the Bible was written in Greek.

Quick Tip: The New Testament was written in Greek, not Aramaic.

Ruler of Athens During Its Golden Age

Pericles ruled Athens during its golden age. He promoted democracy, arts, and science. He started building the Parthenon, a symbol of Athens' power.

Example: Pericles led Athens in a time of culture and growth.

Quick Tip: Pericles shaped Athens' golden age.

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Ancient World History of Romans and Greeks Quiz

Explore the remarkable civilizations of the Romans and Greeks that shaped the foundations of Western history with the "Ancient World History of Romans and Greeks"...

Questions: 37 | Attempts: 180 | Last updated: Apr 07, 2025

Sample Question

What rivalry led to the Peloponnesian war?

Philippi and Athens

Sparta and Athens

Sparta and Crete

Sarta and Troy

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Socratic Teaching Method

Socrates taught by asking questions, encouraging students to think deeply. This Socratic method helps people find answers themselves.

Example: Socrates used questions instead of lectures.

Quick Tip: Asking questions helps you think better.

Teacher Portrayed in The Republic

Socrates is the teacher in Plato's dialogue The Republic. He leads discussions on justice and society. Plato wrote the dialogue, but Socrates is the main speaker.

Example: Socrates asks questions about justice in The Republic.

Quick Tip: Socrates is the teacher in The Republic.

Odysseus Preventing Temptation by Sirens

Odysseus put wax in his men's ears to block the sirens' song. He tied himself to the mast to listen without steering into danger.

Example: Wax stopped the crew from hearing the dangerous song.

Quick Tip: Wax in ears blocks harmful sounds.

Jerusalem Becoming Capital Under King David

King David made Jerusalem Israel's capital. He captured the city and made it the political and religious center.

Example: David brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.

Quick Tip: David made Jerusalem the capital.

How Sirens Entice Sailors in The Odyssey

Sirens lure sailors by singing a beautiful song. Their voices tempt sailors toward danger.

Example: Sirens' song draws sailors to crash.

Quick Tip: Beautiful sounds can be dangerous.

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Quiz : Exciting Romans and Ancient Greece History!

How well aware are you of the exciting history of the Romans and ancient Greece? If you're a real history buff, then this super fun quiz will surely delight you! Make sure...

Questions: 28 | Attempts: 3465 | Last updated: Jul 11, 2025

Sample Question

The Romans built the most advanced society in the ancient world and famously invented the following:

Concrete

Roads

Baths

Plumbing (known as Aquaducts)

All of the above and more.

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Similarity of Mary's Song to Hannah's Song

Mary's song is similar to Hannah's song in the Bible. Both praise God for mercy and justice.

Example: Both songs thank God for helping the humble.

Quick Tip: Both songs express gratitude to God.