The contributions of ancient civilizations, Rome and Greece, have significantly influenced Western civilization in philosophy, literature, politics, and art. Greece is known as the birthplace of democracy, with Athens being its birthplace where every citizen was allowed to participate in decision-making through voting. Rome, on the other hand, was ruled by an elaborate system of government led by two consuls, later centralized in the hands of the emperor. Greek philosophy emphasized reason and rational thought, while their literature contributed to Western society. In contrast, Roman philosophers focused on ethics and morals, and their literature was more pragmatic. Greek art and architecture emphasized beauty, balance, and idealized human form, while Rome focused on conveying power and grandeur through massive structures.
Rome vs. Greece: Comparing the Founding Fathers of Western Civilization
Western civilization has been shaped by the contributions of two ancient cultures, namely Rome and Greece. These two civilizations have greatly influenced the modern world through their literature, politics, philosophy, and social aspects. This article aims to compare and contrast the founding fathers of these great civilizations.
Government and Politics
Greece is known as the birthplace of democracy. Ancient Greece was home to several city-states, including Athens, which is widely regarded as the birthplace of democracy. The Athenians established a system of government where every citizen was allowed to participate in decision-making through voting. This system was revolutionary at the time since previous forms of government were usually run by the wealthy elites.
On the other hand, Rome was ruled by an elaborate system of government that evolved over time. During the Roman Republic, the government was run by two consuls who were elected for a one-year term. Later on, the Roman Empire was established, and power was centralized in the hands of the emperor. Rome’s government was more centralized and authoritarian compared to Greece’s democratic system.
Philosophy and Literature
The Greeks had a significant influence on Western philosophy, and their ideas are still studied today. The Greeks believed in the power of reason and rational thought, and many philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle contributed to the development of philosophy.
Greek literature is also renowned for its contributions to Western society. The Iliad and the Odyssey, written by Homer, are considered the earliest examples of Western literature. Greek plays written by playwrights like Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus have also greatly influenced Western literature and theater.
Rome, on the other hand, had a greater emphasis on practical matters rather than abstract concepts. Roman philosophers like Cicero and Seneca focused on ethics and morals. Roman literature was more pragmatic, and the most influential works were written by historians like Livy and Tacitus.
Art and Architecture
Greek art and architecture are characterized by their emphasis on beauty and balance. Greek sculptures were highly realistic and depicted the human form in its idealized form. Greek architecture is also renowned for its symmetry and harmony, with iconic structures such as the Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus being some of the most prominent examples.
Rome’s art and architecture were more focused on conveying power and grandeur. Roman sculptures were more idealized and were intended to capture the emperor’s power and authority. Roman architecture was known for its massive structures such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon, which were built to awe and intimidate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rome and Greece were both influential in shaping Western civilization. The Greeks contributed to the development of philosophy, literature, and democratic government, while the Romans emphasized practicality, power, and empire-building. Their differences in government, philosophy, literature, and art showcase the diversity and richness of ancient Western civilization. Understanding these differences is crucial to understanding the historical underpinnings of modern society.