Free online courseIntroduction to Ancient Greek History

Course Description

"Introduction to Ancient Greek History" is an enriching course taught by the esteemed historian, Donald Kagan. Spanning a comprehensive duration of 28 hours and 29 minutes, this course delves into the captivating journey of ancient Greece, a civilization that has shaped the foundations of Western history and thought.

This course is categorized under Basic Studies, with a specific focus on History. It serves as an essential primer for anyone interested in understanding the origins and developments of ancient Greek society. More importantly, it is crafted to cater to the fundamental curiosity of learners, whether they are history enthusiasts or students aiming to gain a foundational understanding of historical processes.

The rich tapestry of subjects covered begins with a general introduction to ancient Greek history, helping to set the stage for a more detailed exploration. The journey then ventures into The Dark Ages, a period that signifies the transition and eventual renaissance of Greek civilization. Learners are guided through the complexities and transformations during this era, providing a robust understanding of Greece's formative years.

The course then progresses to the Rise of the Polis, highlighting the emergence and significance of city-states in shaping the Greek identity and political landscape. The subsequent sessions cover the Greek Renaissance, marked by colonization and the rise of tyranny, offering insights into the dynamic and evolving nature of Greek society.

In-depth examinations of pivotal city-states like Sparta and Athens introduce learners to the unique characteristics and contributions of these centers of power. Specifically, sessions on Sparta offer a glimpse into its militaristic and austere society, while discussions on Athens shed light on its rise and the development of its democratic institutions.

The Persian Wars are covered in significant detail, emphasizing the clash between the Greek city-states and the Persian Empire, a defining moment in world history. Following this, the course explores the formation and impact of the Athenian Empire, providing a critical look at Athens’ imperial ambitions and its consequences.

No exploration of ancient Greece would be complete without a thorough discussion of Athenian Democracy. These sessions dissect the principles, practices, and evolution of democracy in Athens, offering learners a window into the world's early experiments with democratic governance.

The Peloponnesian War is another focal point, examined meticulously in two parts. This intense and prolonged conflict between Athens and Sparta is presented with detail and nuance, highlighting the political, social, and military dimensions of the war.

As the course approaches its conclusion, it covers the Struggle for Hegemony in Fourth-Century Greece, a period marked by shifting power dynamics and the quest for dominance among Greek city-states. The exploration finally leads to the Twilight of the Polis, signifying the end of an era and the transformation of Greek society.

Through this structured and comprehensive exploration, "Introduction to Ancient Greek History" offers learners an invaluable understanding of one of history's most influential civilizations. Embark on this educational odyssey with Donald Kagan and gain profound insights into the events, cultures, and individuals that shaped ancient Greece.