week 7 questions Flashcards
Describe the challenges faced by the Hellenistic world after Alexander the Great’s death.
The Hellenistic world faced significant challenges after Alexander’s death, including the vast territory with diverse cultures, languages, and religions. It became impossible to govern by a single person, leading to the rise of factions contesting over Alexander’s conquests.
Who were the Diadochoi, and what role did they play in the post-Alexander era?
The Diadochoi, meaning “Successors,” were friends and allies of Alexander who fought over his legacy and territory after his death. This struggle involved figures like Antigonos “Monophtalmos,” Seleucus, and Ptolemy “Soter,” leading to a series of wars between successors from 323 to 276 BCE.
Explain the significance of Alexandria in the Hellenistic world.
Alexandria, established by Alexander, became a cultural and intellectual hub at the mouth of the Nile. It housed the reburial site of Alexander’s body during the Succession Wars. The city projected Ptolemaic power through culture and heritage, fostering intellectual and artistic activities.
How did the Ptolemies fuse Greek and Egyptian traditions in ruling Egypt?
The Ptolemies, including Ptolemy I “Soter” and Ptolemy II “Philadelphus,” fused Greek and Egyptian traditions in various ways. They organized lavish festivals, patronized artists and scholars, and transformed the cult of Alexander into a ruler cult, creating a synthesis of Greek and Egyptian cultures.
What was the cultural significance of the Rosetta Stone in Ptolemaic Egypt?
Answer: The Rosetta Stone, with inscriptions in Egyptian hieroglyphs, Demotic, and Greek, reflected the ethnic and linguistic diversity of the region. Greek, as a language, symbolized status and influence. The stone played a crucial role in deciphering ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.
How did Rome’s growth from a single city to a world power occur, and what role did Italy play in this expansion?
Rome’s growth from a single city to a world power began on the Italian peninsula. By the 3rd century BCE, it became a major power, expanding its influence from Britain to North Africa. Italy’s cultural and economic significance, along with its fertile land, played a crucial role in Rome’s rise
Discuss the influence of the Etruscans on early Rome.
The Etruscans, with evidence dating back to 800 BCE, significantly influenced early Rome. Livy notes the adoption of symbols like the toga praetexta, sella curulis, and fasces from Etruscan models. This cultural amalgamation contributed to the shaping of Roman identity.
Explain the significance of Aeneas in the foundation myths of Rome.
Explain the significance of Aeneas in the foundation myths of Rome.
Answer: Aeneas, a refugee from Troy, played a crucial role in Roman foundation myths. As the son of Venus Genetrix, he symbolized the inheritance of Greek culture and had a complicated relationship with Rome. Aeneas’ journey and the tales of the “Latins” reflect the divine connection and destiny of Rome.
Compare and contrast the foundation myths of Romulus and Remus.
The foundation myths of Romulus and Remus involve exposure, rescue, and conflict leading to Rome’s establishment in 753 BCE. Versions differ regarding the fate of Remus, emphasizing the harsh nature of Rome’s foundation. The myths illustrate different aspects of Roman identity and values.
