Influence Of Ancient Greece On Western Civilization

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Ancient Greek Influence On Western Civilizations By: Ava Stanton D Block Due: April 8th Who knew that the theorem just used in geometry class was created by a random guy named Euclid, who lived in Greece, about 4,460 years ago? Ancient Greece was a time of groundbreaking discoveries, inventions, and ideas. The Ancient Greeks were pioneers who influenced Western societies in many areas such as art, philosophy, science, and mathematics because many specific techniques and ideas created by ancient Greeks can be seen in modern-day life. This essay will speak to the fact that the foundation of many things we know today was laid by the Greeks. The Greeks made groundbreaking discoveries in the areas of math and science, …show more content…

Their philosophical approach to understanding the natural world also shaped how Western societies approached scientific inquiry. Hippocrates was a Greek doctor who is referred to as the “father of modern medicine”. One of Hippocrates' most famous creations is the Hippocratic Oath. It is believed that Hippocrates created this oath so that self-serving physicians during ancient times could not harm their patients. An excerpt from the Hippocratic Oath (Document 4) states this, “I will follow that [treatment] which, according to my ability and judgment, I will consider for the benefit of my patients, and abstain from whatever is [harmful]. I will give no deadly medicine to anyone if asked, nor suggest any such [advice]...”. In this document, Hippocrates promised his patients that he would do whatever he could to benefit them and do nothing to harm them. This oath was carried throughout many …show more content…

The Greeks were known for their love of symmetry and balance in their buildings. Most of their structures contained columns and pediments. The column, capital, and entablature are examples of Greek architectural traits that have evolved into essential elements of Western architecture. For example, the Corinthian, Doric, and Ionic columns were frequently used in the construction of governmental structures, temples, and monuments in Western architecture. Buildings gained a sense of grandeur and permanence thanks to the usage of these columns, which also served as emblems of power and stability. The detail that came with these structures was a form of art. Another art that was prominent during this time was theatre. Ancient Greek theater is widely regarded as the birthplace of Western drama, and its influence is still felt in the modern world. The plays dealt with various themes from love and politics to religion and mythology. “I know I must die…But if I left my brother dead and unburied, I’d have cause to grieve as now I grieve not” (Document