CLASSICAL ANTIQUITY Meaning and
Definition
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Classical antiquity refers to the period of history in the Mediterranean region that encompasses ancient Greece and ancient Rome, spanning from the 8th century BCE to the 6th century CE. This era is characterized by the significant cultural and intellectual contributions that emerged from these civilizations, shaping the foundations of Western civilization.
In ancient Greece, classical antiquity witnessed the rise of democracy, philosophy, and scientific reasoning. Prominent Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle made substantial contributions to the field of philosophy, ethics, and political thought. Greek playwrights like Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus pioneered the art of tragedy and comedy. Additionally, Greece saw advances in mathematics, with the works of mathematicians like Pythagoras and Euclid.
During ancient Rome, classical antiquity experienced the height of the Roman Empire, where law, engineering, and architecture were extensively developed. Roman laws, such as the Twelve Tables, laid the foundation for legal systems throughout history. Roman engineering and architecture produced magnificent structures like the Colosseum, aqueducts, and roads. Latin, the language of ancient Rome, became a dominant language in education, government, and literature.
Overall, classical antiquity is revered as a period of immense intellectual and cultural achievements that have profoundly influenced subsequent civilizations. The art, literature, philosophy, political systems, and scientific developments from this era continue to be studied, admired, and celebrated, showcasing the enduring legacy of ancient Greece and Rome.
Etymology of CLASSICAL ANTIQUITY
The word "classical" comes from the Latin word "classicus", which means "of the highest class, first class, or superior" and is derived from "classis", meaning "a class or group". The word "antiquity" comes from the Latin word "antiquitas", which means "ancientness" or "old age" and is derived from "antiquus", meaning "old" or "ancient".
When combined, "classical antiquity" refers to the ancient period of Greek and Roman civilization, considered to be of the highest or superior class. It encompasses the time from the 8th century BCE (the archaic period of Greece) to the 6th century CE (the fall of the Western Roman Empire). This term is used to refer to the cultural, historical, and artistic works and achievements of these civilizations.
