E.H. Gombrich 'A Little History of the World' 9. Two Small Cities in one Small Land

This paragraph delves into the historical context of ancient Greece, emphasizing the small peninsula's division into numerous city-states, each with its own king and administration. Despite their differences, the Greeks were united by their shared religion and sports, particularly the Olympic Games held every four years in Olympia. The text highlights the significance of these games in Greek culture, where victory brought great honor and fame. It also mentions the Delphic Oracle, a sacred site where the Greeks sought guidance from the Sun god Apollo. The paragraph concludes with an introduction to Sparta and Athens, two of Greece's most prominent cities, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their unique characteristics and histories.

The second paragraph contrasts the societal structures and philosophies of Sparta and Athens. Spartan society was militaristic, with a harsh upbringing designed to produce strong warriors. Spartans lived in constant fear of slave rebellion and focused on physical training and endurance from a young age. In contrast, Athenian society valued a life of meaning and contribution, leading to the development of democracy. The Athenian system allowed citizens to participate in the city's governance, although this was limited to a certain class of people. The paragraph also discusses the influence of Solon, who introduced democratic reforms, and the rise of Pericles, a statesman who effectively became the city's ruler and focused on maintaining Athens' naval power. The Athenians' pursuit of truth and beauty is also highlighted, setting the stage for a discussion on their contributions to art, philosophy, and politics.

The final paragraph focuses on the cultural achievements of the Athenians, particularly in the realms of philosophy, art, and theater. It describes how the Athenians engaged in philosophical discussions about the nature of the world and human existence, leading to the development of various theories and schools of thought. The paragraph also celebrates the natural beauty and simplicity of Greek art, as exemplified by statues and the architecture of the Acropolis. The discussion then turns to the invention of theater in Athens, where performances were an integral part of religious festivals honoring Dionysus. The text distinguishes between tragedies, which were serious and solemn, and comedies, which were humorous and often satirical. The paragraph concludes by encouraging further exploration of Athenian history, culture, and contributions to human knowledge and the arts.