The Greek people have lived for thousands of years and have been part of the cultural and social fabric of the Mediterranean Region for just as long. They have an incredibly rich and diverse culture that has greatly impacted the world in its modern state.
From philosophy, medicine, science, and mathematics to the arts, sculpture, monumental architecture, and even the Olympic Games, many of the world’s modern advances have come from Ancient Greece. This article will look at the different aspects of the Greek people and their impact on the wider world.
What is a Greek Person?
A Greek person is someone whose heritage and ancestry traces back to Ancient Greece, a civilization which developed around the Mediterranean Sea over 4000 years ago. During the classical period of Ancient Greece, the population was composed of a wide range of ethnicities, including Macedonians, Thracians, and Attic Greeks.
Today, an estimated 11 million people still reside in Greece, and the majority are of Greek Orthodox faith. Significant Greek populations also exist in the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
History
The origins of the ancient Greek people date back to pre-historic times and the first known inhabitants of Greece were the Mycenaeans and Minoans. Greek civilization began in mainland Greece during the Early Iron Age, and the rise of city-states such as Athens and Sparta brought about the classical period of Greek civilization. The founding of the Democractic Athenian city-state is widely credited as the birthplace of democracy.
Greek civilization continued in its classical form until the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC, and its effects can still be seen in many aspects of modern life today.
Religion
The major faith associated with the Greek people is Greek Orthodoxy, and almost 90% of the current Greek population adheres to the religion. The religion was officially adopted by the Roman Empire in 380 AD and has since evolved and adapted over time to include newer forms of theological thinking. Although still the majority faith of the Greek people, there are also a number of other major religious groups in Greece, such as Islam and Protestantism.
Culture
The Greek people have a unique culture that is rooted in Ancient Greece and continues to be passed down from generation to generation. From philosophy and music to art and language, Greek culture has left a mark on the world.
Greek language
The Greek language has been spoken in Greece for thousands of years. It evolved from the Ancient Greek tongue and has since been modified over time to fit the needs of its speakers. Modern Greek is one of the official languages of the European Union and is recognized globally.
Greek cuisine
Greek cuisine is one of the most popular in the world and is part of the Mediterranean diet. Traditional dishes include gyros, tzatziki, baklava, and dolmades, and there is an abundance of fresh seafood, vegetables, and olive oil used in most dishes. Greek food is often served as meze, or a series of small dishes, with different courses such as appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
Greek music
Greece is known for its vibrant and unique traditional music, with some instruments said to have originated from Ancient Greece. Popular folk instruments include the bouzouki, the santouri, and the clarino, and the music style is often characterized by its highly ornamented melodies, intricate rhythms, and passionate singing. Rebetiko is a form of Greek folk music that dates back to the 1920s and is closely tied to the nation’s culture.
Visual Arts
The Greeks were one of the first civilizations to develop proficiency in visual arts. Ancient Greek sculpture is characterized by its decoration, fine details, and stunning realism, while architecture is notable for its simple geometric shapes and mathematical precision. The Parthenon, located in Athens, is one of the most recognizable monuments of the ancient world and was constructed in the style of classical Greek architecture.
Philosophy
Ancient Greek philosophy played an influential role in the development of western civilization and the development of modern scientific thought. It developed out of a desire to explore and understand the world through rational methods as opposed to religion and superstition. The works of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle have profoundly shaped the course of modern history and continue to influence the way we think and process ideas today.
Drama
The Ancient Greeks were among the earliest people to create plays for performance, paving the way for the theater arts we know today. The first plays were developed around 5th century BC and dealt with mythological themes and subjects. Sophocles is one of the most notable playwrights of Ancient Greece and his plays such as Oedipus Rex and Antigone are still studied and performed today.
Sports
Sports were an integral part of the Ancient Greek experience and it was during this time that the Olympic Games were founded. The Olympics were an important part of Greek culture and were held every four years in honour of the God Zeus. The games were a way to bring different city-states together in competition and were a symbol of peace and unity.
The Greek people have a long and vibrant history that has had an immense impact on the world. From languages and sports to the arts and philosophy, Ancient Greece has left its mark on the world and still continues to influence modern life today. From vibrant cuisine and music to the Olympics, Greek culture is alive and well and is sure to continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
