Two Ways in Which Hellenistic Culture and Civilization Differed From the Earlier Hellenic Culture Term Paper

Greek Studies

Hellenistic Culture

The Hellenistic culture differed quite greatly from the earlier Hellenic culture in a variety of ways. The entire civilization changed. While it had been centered around the core of the polis during the Hellenic phase, it shifted to a civilization more based in empires and kingdoms, and the city-state of the polis dwindled in power. This made many Greeks feel less sure of their position in the government and in affairs outside Greece. This was perhaps the most disturbing aspect of the Hellenistic age, because Greek society had been based on a true democracy of the people, and with the rise of the empires and the kingdoms, the people lost some of their power in everyday government.It made them feel isolated and alone as the polis disappeared, but it also changed the basic makeup of the people, creating a distinct "ruling" class that had not been quite as prevalent before. In fact, many societies in Greek culture actually worshipped their leader as if he were a God.

In addition, it added to a….....