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Cleaned assignment instructions:

Analyze the features of democracy that Pericles claims make Athens a superior society and compare it to modern democracy. Examine Plato's arguments against democracy and consider the advantages of his proposed government. Explore Greek architectural elements and sculptures, identify the classical style, and find modern U.S. buildings that exhibit this style. Review the map of Alexander's conquests to identify the modern countries covering the farthest points east, west, north, and south of his empire.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The democracy of Ancient Athens, as championed by Pericles in his Funeral Oration, presents a model of political participation, civic virtue, and equality that has resonated through history as a foundational element of Western political culture. Comparing Athenian democracy to modern democratic systems reveals both similarities and differences, shedding light on its enduring influence and limitations. Similarly, Plato’s critique of democracy and his advocacy for rule by philosopher-kings provide alternative visions of governance, which continue to stimulate debate about authority, justice, and the role of expertise in leadership. Additionally, Greek architecture and sculpture exemplify the classical style, characterized by harmony, proportion, and a focus on humanism, evident in many contemporary structures. Finally, understanding the scope of Alexander the Great’s conquests situates his empire within the context of modern nations, illustrating how ancient cultural and political influences have shaped contemporary geography. This essay explores these topics, connecting ancient Greek principles with modern interpretations and applications.

Athenian Democracy and Its Features

Pericles’ Funeral Oration, as documented in Thucydides’ History of the Peloponnesian War, emphasizes several core features of Athenian democracy that set it apart as a superior society. He highlights the principle of political equality, where every citizen participated directly in decision-making, regardless of wealth or birth. Pericles also praises the system’s emphasis on civic responsibility and collective participation, asserting that the democracy fosters a sense of community and individual honor. The openness and transparency of the political process, along with the practice of deliberative assembly, exemplify Athens’ commitment to public inclusion. Furthermore, Pericles underscores the Athenian’s respect for rule of law and the active engagement of citizens in judicial and legislative roles. These features contributed to a vibrant and resilient political culture that valued contribution from all classes, fostering a sense of shared purpose and civic pride.

Comparison with Modern Democracy

Modern democracies, such as the United States, share several features with Athenian democracy, particularly the principles of political equality and participation. However, there are key differences: contemporary systems are typically republics with representative government, whereas Athens practiced direct democracy with citizens voting on laws and policies firsthand. Modern democracies also incorporate protections for individual rights and minorities, whereas Athens’ democracy was limited to male citizens and excluded women, slaves, and non-citizens. Despite these differences, both systems aspire to secure accountability, uphold the rule of law, and ensure participation—though the mechanisms differ significantly.

Plato’s Critique of Democracy

Plato’s critique, articulated chiefly in The Republic, criticizes democracy for its tendency toward excessive freedom and the potential for demagogues to manipulate the masses. He argues that democracy reduces all citizens’ opinions to equal footing, regardless of their knowledge or virtue, which leads to disorder and unfounded decision-making. Plato proposes a government led by philosopher-kings—rulers who possess wisdom, virtue, and knowledge of the Forms, especially the Form of the Good. Such rulers, according to Plato, are best equipped to create just laws and policies, leading to societal harmony and justice. This aristocratic or meritocratic system positions rulers as wise guardians rather than populist leaders driven by self-interest or emotion.

Relevance of Plato’s Government Today

While Plato’s ideal of philosopher-kings may seem impractical in modern democratic societies, his emphasis on rule by knowledgeable and virtuous leaders continues to influence discussions on governance. Some argue that expert-led technocratic models could address complex issues like climate change or economic policy more effectively. However, critics contend that such a system risks undermining democratic participation and accountability, essential components of civil liberties. Thus, while Plato’s model offers valuable insights into the importance of expertise and virtue, its applicability in contemporary political structures remains debated, especially regarding the balance of power and authority.

Greek Architectural Style and Modern Examples

The Greek classical style is characterized by harmony, proportion, and the use of columns such as Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. The emphasis on symmetry, balance, and the integration of sculpture and architecture exemplifies the aesthetic ideals of Greek art. Notable features include triangular pediments, friezes depicting mythological scenes, and free-standing columns that support structures or serve decoratively. Modern buildings inspired by this style include the United States Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and many state capitols, which incorporate Greek columns and motifs to evoke ideals of democracy, stability, and civic virtue. The persistence of the classical style signifies a cultural aspiration toward harmony, grandeur, and rationality rooted in Greek artistic principles.

Alexander’s Conquests and Modern Geography

Alexander the Great’s empire extended eastward into parts of modern-day Pakistan and India, westward into Egypt and Turkey, northward into Central Asia, and southward toward parts of Iran and Afghanistan. Specifically, his farthest eastern point includes regions within contemporary Pakistan, notably the Punjab province. The westernmost extent reached Egypt and the Mediterranean coast. To the north, his empire covered parts of Iran and Central Asia, such as Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. The southern limits included Afghanistan and Pakistan. These conquests facilitated the Hellenistic spread of Greek culture across Europe, Asia, and Africa, shaping the cultural and political landscape of these regions today. Understanding this geographic extent clarifies how ancient empires influenced modern political boundaries and cultural developments.

Conclusion

The examination of Athenian democracy, Plato’s critiques, Greek architectural style, and Alexander’s empire reveals the profound influence of ancient Greece on modern political, philosophical, and artistic domains. Although the structures and governance models have evolved, the core ideals of civic participation, pursuit of knowledge, aesthetic harmony, and territorial expansion continue to resonate. Appreciating these connections enriches our understanding of contemporary society and underscores the enduring legacy of Greek civilization.

References

• J.B. Bury, The History of Greece, 1958.
• Thucydides, The History of the Peloponnesian War.
• Plato, The Republic.
• Neils, J. (2005). The Origins of Art in Greece: From Mycenae to the End of the Classical Period. Thames & Hudson.
• Boardman, J. (1994). Greek Art and Archaeology. Thames & Hudson.
• Hansen, M.H. (2006). The Athenian Democracy in Practice. Journal of Democracy.
• Fox, R. (2004). Alexander the Great. Penguin Books.
• Elkins, J., & Senefeld, D. (2014). Art and Architecture of Greece. Oxford University Press.
• Cartledge, P. (2013). Ancient Greece: A History in Eleven Cities. Oxford University Press.
• Green, P. (2007). The Hellenistic World. Routledge.