Collins Gem Ancient Greece: From Drama and Democracy to Muses and Mythology

From theater to politics, no single civilization has influenced the Western world more profoundly than that of ancient Greece. From the roots of democracy to philosophy and mathematics, many important founding ideas of western civilization have stemmed from ancient Greece. This book offers an introduction to the lives of the ancient Greeks, their mythologies and traditions, and their culture and learning. With color illustrations supporting a clear, informative, and engaging text, this guide is a perfect companion for both adults and children alike. Geography is discussed using a map of Greece, the history of the different civilizations from the Minoans through to the Hellenistic period is detailed, gods, festivals, oracles and muses are included in the section on religion, and the mythology chapter covers Homer's Odyssey, the Minotaur, and Icarus. Daily life in ancient Greece is discussed for all levels of society; including the jobs, family life, and leisure activities. Democracy and the Athenian council are detailed in the section on politics. Learning and knowledge in ancient Greece include such areas as philosophy, science, mathematics, medicine, and literature. War is covered, and finally Greece today is explored, including temples, archaeology, and which monuments that can still be seen.