Comparison: Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome
Government: What was the structure and what were the main principles of each civilization's government?
Arts: What contributions or achievements did each civilization make in visual art, science, architecture, literature, theater, and medicine?
Economics: How did the civilizations grow and prosper?
Religion: What were the common religious practices? What was the government’s role in religion?
Government:
Ancient Greece had a democratic government where citizens participated in decision-making through voting. They also had city-states with their own governments. Main principles included citizen participation, rule of law, and equality before the law.
Ancient Rome had a republican government where power was held by elected officials and assemblies. They later transitioned to an empire with an emperor holding supreme power. Main principles included separation of powers, checks and balances, and protection of individual rights.
Arts:
Both Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome made significant contributions to visual art, science, architecture, literature, theater, and medicine. Greek art focused on idealized forms and human figures, while Roman art was more realistic and focused on depicting historical events. Greek literature included epic poems like the Iliad and the Odyssey, while Roman literature included works like the Aeneid by Virgil. In architecture, Greeks are known for the Parthenon, while Romans are known for structures like the Colosseum. Both civilizations made advancements in medicine and theater.
Economics:
Ancient Greece relied heavily on agriculture, trade, and handicrafts for economic growth. They also established colonies for trade and commerce. Ancient Rome had a more diverse economy that included agriculture, mining, trade, and manufacturing. They also built an extensive road network to facilitate trade and communication.
Religion:
In Ancient Greece, religious practices were polytheistic with a pantheon of gods and goddesses like Zeus, Athena, and Apollo. Greeks believed in honoring the gods through rituals and ceremonies. The government played a role in promoting and regulating religious practices. In Ancient Rome, religion was also polytheistic with gods like Jupiter, Mars, and Venus. The government had a role in promoting state-sponsored religious practices and ceremonies.