The Archaic Period

Overview

• The Archaic Period of ancient Greece is generally considered to have taken place from the 8th century BC to the 5th century BC. This period was marked by significant political, cultural, and social changes.
• During this period, colonization happened throughout the Greek city-states, which expanded Greek culture and influence to areas such as Italy, North Africa, and the Near East.

Political Developments

• Rise of the Polis: The most crucial political development during the Archaic period was the rise of the polis or city-state, a small self-governing unit where political, religious, and social activities centred.
• The city-states were typically ruled by aristocratic elites. Over time, these elites began to be challenged, leading to upheavals and, in some cases, the establishment of tyrannies. Though seen negatively by Greeks, these tyrants often supported cultural and economic advancements.
• Many city-states established law codes, and in Athens, the codification by Draco and reforms by Solon played a significant role in advancing democracy.

Social and Economic Changes

• Colonization due to population growth and land pressures not only expanded Greek geographical presence but also affected economic and social structures. Trade became more integral, and social distinctions became more intricate as wealth increased.
• The hoplite phalanx, a heavily armed infantry, gained prominence. Hoplites were often small land-owners, which influenced the political structure of the city-states.
• For the first time, Greek society saw the emergence of the middle class. This new social class started playing a vital role in various facets of Greek life, such as politics and trade.

Cultural Developments

• Significant architectural innovations, such as the Doric and Ionic orders, were introduced during the Archaic period. These styles were quintessential in Greek temples.
• Sculpture also saw significant advancements, moving from geometric abstract forms to more realistic representations of human form ('kouros' and 'kore' figures).
• Writing systems were adopted during the Archaic period. Greeks adapted the Phoenician alphabet, adding vowels to it. This innovation led to the development of notable literature—epic poetry, lyric poetry, and others.
• The Archaic Period is often referred to as the age of Homer, the blind bard who supposedly wrote the epic poems the Iliad and the Odyssey.

Religion

• Greek mythology and religion started to take more defined forms during the Archaic Period.
• The Greek gods assumed human forms and characteristics, differentiating the Greek pantheon from other contemporary religions.
• The construction of grand temples for gods and goddesses signifies their importance in daily life and the state's affairs. These religious structures often became the centrepiece of the city-states.