The Golden Age of Athens

Athens experienced a Golden Age of trade and artistic and philosophical achievements during the

400s B.C. Pericles introduced democratic reforms and oversaw the construction of the Parthenon.

1 of 4

The Rise of Ancient GreeceSection 2: Religion, Philosophy, and the Arts

Ancient Greek Religious Beliefs

The Greeks worshiped a family of gods known as the Twelve Olympians and built temples in

their honor. Zeus was the king of the gods who resided on Mount Olympus. Various shrines

were oracles, where the gods could make their wishes known through priests or priestesses.

The Search for Knowledge

During Athens’s Golden Age, philosophers such as Socrates challenged people’s beliefs and ways

of thinking. Socrates guided people to examine their beliefs through questions. He was forced to

commit suicide for dishonoring the gods. His student Plato wrote about how to achieve an ideal

society. Plato’s student Aristotle advocated the use of reason.

2 of 4

The Rise of Ancient GreeceSection 2: Religion, Philosophy, and the Arts

Visual and Dramatic Arts

The Greeks excelled in art, architecture, and drama. The Parthenon in Athens and its sculptures

and decorative scenes reflect the Greek love of balance and perfection. Greeks wrote the first

dramas, both tragedies and comedies.

3 of 4

The Rise of Ancient GreeceSection 2: Religion, Philosophy, and the Arts

Section Reading Support Transparency

Many City-States, One People

The Greeks excelled in art, architecture, and drama. The Parthenon in Athens and its sculptures

and decorative scenes reflect the Greek love of balance and perfection. Greeks wrote the first

dramas, both tragedies and comedies.

Examview QuickTake Presenter Chapter Test

The Rise of Ancient Greece: Section 2Section Reading Support Transparency

4 of 4