Hellenistical is an adjective that pertains to or is characteristic of the Hellenistic period, which refers to the historical era in ancient Greece that followed the conquests of Alexander the Great and lasted from the late 4th century BCE to the 1st century BCE. This term is derived from the word "Hellenistic," which itself originates from "Hellenism," meaning the spread of Greek culture, language, and influence.
When used to describe something as hellenistical, it implies a connection or similarity to the cultural, artistic, philosophical, and scientific developments that emerged during this period. It encompasses various aspects such as literature, architecture, sculpture, philosophy, and political systems influenced by Greek civilization.
An object, artwork, or architectural design described as hellenistical may reflect the fusion of Greek aesthetics with other cultural influences, blending Greek style and technique with elements borrowed from Eastern or Egyptian civilizations. This period saw an expansion of Greek influence into the wider Mediterranean world, leading to a blending and evolution of various artistic and cultural traditions.
Furthermore, this term can also relate to the intellectual and philosophical developments of the time, characterized by the emergence of new schools of thought and philosophical systems, such as Stoicism and Epicureanism. Hellenistical philosophy often explored questions of ethics, human nature, and the pursuit of knowledge and happiness.
Overall, the term hellenistical denotes anything associated with the cultural, artistic, philosophical, or intellectual innovations and influences that emerged during the Hellenistic period in ancient Greece.
