The Pillars: Jerusalem, Athens, and the Western Mind Early Greek History: The Mycenaeans to the Archaic Age
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Oct 29, 2024 Dive into the fascinating origins of Greek civilization! Discover how the Olympic Games began and why athletes competed naked. Explore the rise of city-states and the evolution of governance, as well as the Greeks' unique culture that embraced diversity. Uncover the mysteries of the Dark Ages and how myths fueled historical narratives. Marvel at the intricate dynamics of trade and the cultural transformations that shaped a society rich in art, language, and mythology.
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Naked Athletes Emulated Gods
- Greek society highly valued individual athletic excellence and beauty as reflections of divine qualities.
- Athletes competed naked to showcase their physical strength and similarity to the gods.
Greek vs Jewish Imago Dei
- Greeks believed humans were made in the image of gods, emphasizing physical beauty and strength.
- Jewish tradition values being God's partner rather than imitating divine form.
Greek Cosmopolitanism and Self-Rule
- Greek culture was cosmopolitan and open to other cultures through trade and inquiry.
- Greeks valued cultural exchange but were inwardly focused on preserving their own traditions.