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Hellenistic Times And Classical Times

Decent Essays

The Hellenistic Times and Classical Times were each a period where the circumstances, lifestyles, and thought processes that people lived by were different in their respective societies. Although it is evident that both time periods are distinguishable, it does not mean that they share no connection towards each other at all. For I will compare, contrast, and explain the differences between the two and showcase the contributions that both eras gave to the world at the time they were made. One example of a piece of art that displays the differences between Classical Times and Hellenistic Times would be the Doryphoros (Spear-Bearer) (c. 450-440 BCE), a sculpture made by Polykleitos. Polykleitos made this art piece during the Classical Times …show more content…

Ironically enough the statue entails a sense of dread and beauty to it simultaneously because of how appreciative it is to view such great sculpt and detail put forth. Not only that, but the large empty space on the right balances out all of the action of the father’s body and arm on the left side. When it pertains to philosophy, one difference that can be made from Classical Times to the Hellenistic Times would be the Greek Philosopher Plato. Where in The Republic (381 BCE) he believes that individuals should subsume their interests to society in order to achieve the perfect form of government. He envisions a utopian world in which the three classes, philosophers, warriors, and workers have their suited role(s) and governing would be given to the hands of those who were worthy of such responsibility. That being the “Philosopher Rulers.” As opposed to Aristotle from Politics (c. 325 BCE) during the Hellenistic Times, in which he viewed the polis as a political unit that should take precedence over family and the individual. Claiming that man was no more than a political animal by nature and therefore was unable to avoid the obstacles of politics. The role of the city—in his viewpoint—was not justice or economic stability, but to create an environment where the people could live in prosperity. Two historical factors that were significant in changing the Classical Times into the Hellenistic Times were

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