Greeks vs Romans

Greeks vs. Romans
Amber Eagler
HUMA215-1204A-10
Mr. Lynn
August 22, 2012

Abstract
This paper compares and contrasts the Greek and Roman Cultures. This paper compares and contrasts distinguishing elements or features of early Greek and Roman cultures, including illustrative or significant examples of the various features. This paper discusses the elements of both Greek and Roman culture such as: government and geographical terrain, economics and trade practices, art and architecture, and philosophical and religious beliefs. This paper will give readers clearer picture of the Greeks and Romans.

Greek and Roman Cultures
Government
Compare-Kings ruled the cities of Greece and Rome.
Contrast -Rome became a Republican government. Greece turned toward oligarchy, and then became a Democratic government. (Gill, N.S. 2012)
Geographical Terrain Compare- Greece and Rome are found in the Mediterranean. (Gill, N.S. 2012) Contrast- Greece is surrounded by hilly countryside’s located near water. Rome is more inland without natural hilly borders . (Gill, N.S. 2012)
Economics
Compare- Greece and Rome were economically based on agriculture, (Gill, N.S. 2012) producing wine and olive oil.
Contrast- Greeks thought it was degrading to get dirty so they hired slaves to do their farming. Romans were the complete opposite they cultivated their own lands.
Trade Practices
Compare- Greece and Rome exported wine and olive oil |
Contrast- Romans imported wheat constantly because it was in steady demand. Greeks used wheat as a household food, so they traded with the Romans.
Art
Compare- Greek and Roman art is famous and in many museums around the world. Contrast- Greek art is considered superior and perfect; Greek art is considered the ideal artistic form. Roman art is realistic portraits. (Gill, N.S. 2012)

Architecture Compare- Greece and Rome have buildings and structures that are still in pristine condition today. Both used Corinthian Style. (Parthenon and the Tower of Hercules)
Contrast-Greeks had three styles of architecture: Doric, Iconic and Corinthian; all their buildings showed civic power and pride. (Faller, Mia, 2012) Romans used Corinthian style to show their power and bring people together.

Philosophical Beliefs Compare- Both were originated in Greece Contrast- Greeks were Cosmologists; they focused on the world and worldly things. Romans believed in Stoicism (Having short term goals will eventually help with future goals) and Epicurus (Personal satisfaction comes from sensual serenity)

Religious Beliefs Compare- Greek and Roman priests believed Gods and Goddesses were where they came from. Contrast- Greeks believed in anthropomorphic religion, with deities having human form and manners. Romans did not believe in deities, but rather what is called numina, which is a divine power with precise functions but no actual physical identities. (Unknown 2012)

References
Gill, N.S., Comparisons Between Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome (2012). Retrieved August 22, 2012 from: http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/greecevsrome/ss/GreecevsRome.htm

Faller, Mia, Differences Between Roman and Greek Architecture (2012). Retrieved August 22, 2012 from: http://www.ehow.com/facts_5507152_differences-between-roman-greek-architecture.html

Author Unknown: Roman Religion (2012). Retrieved August 22, 2012 from: http://www.roman-colosseum.info/roman-gods/roman-religion.htm

References: Gill, N.S., Comparisons Between Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome (2012). Retrieved August 22, 2012 from: http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/greecevsrome/ss/GreecevsRome.htm Faller, Mia, Differences Between Roman and Greek Architecture (2012). Retrieved August 22, 2012 from: http://www.ehow.com/facts_5507152_differences-between-roman-greek-architecture.html Author Unknown: Roman Religion (2012). Retrieved August 22, 2012 from: http://www.roman-colosseum.info/roman-gods/roman-religion.htm