Thursday, November 17, 2011
We have begun to discuss Greece, and how many layers we need to address!
After a discussion of the physical geography, we moved to the Minoans and Mycenean civilizations. This coming Tuesday, we will discuss the Dark Ages of Greece and then move on to Archaic Greece. In addition to presenting new information, we will begin our discussion cycle. Please have the following prepared for Tuesday:
1. Threads about Greek culture - specifically on the Archaic Period if possible.
2. Primary sources - read the following article: Archaic Age and the Polis, focus on the first three topics: The Dark Ages, The Rise of the Polis, and Colonization
Note: Professional Development Day has been announced and all classes on Tuesday, Nov. 29th from 11:30 - 3:50 are cancelled.
So our next class after Thanksgiving will meet on Thursday, Dec. 1st. The Critical Thinking Question for Greece is due that day. Here is the question:
The culture of Sparta, after Lycurgean Reform, allowed for (according to current western view) harsh social standards such as the killing of unhealthy infants, the severe military education of young boys, and the strict code of combat or glorious death on the battle field ("Come home with your shield or on it!"). Discuss factors that may have influenced the development of such a military culture.
