The Polis In Ancient Greece

What were some of the primary political, economic, social and military aspects of it? The Polis was a common structure within the community of ancient Greece that emerged in the Dark Ages, in response to destruction of cities, palaces and other products of civilization. Within a polis was an urban center which was typically fortified and built with either a sacred center or a harbor. Due to this, “polis” has been translated to mean “city-state” being that there was typically one city, and the freedom that they had of political, religious, legal, social and judicial practices made them an effective state. The time frame where the polis emerged is considered a great time of recovery for the Greeks, but in terms of politics, economics, culture

Most information that we have from the time period comes from The Iliad and The Odyssey. However, these do show us very clearly that people ruled the polis, the polis did not rule people. Just as a state is, a polis would be involved in international affairs, wars and political alliances. Very few poleis existed that held people in command. The former system of existing under a King’s reign (monarchy), had been eliminated and kings had been unseated. The people within the poleis reacted to this by constructing assemblies where particular members of the polis served. Evidence from the 5th century shows that town planning was a major social and political part of society for the Greeks. Specific areas of the city were dedicated to private, religious and various public functions. The areas dedicated to public assembly were used for not only social and political purposes, but for entertainment (theaters, gymnasiums etc…) as well. Citizens were also responsible for defending/protecting their

These groups made up nearly 90% of the population and had to be included to create a functioning community. They did this by creating a communal space where people could socialize and mix. This place was known as the Agora, which the Romans later renamed the Forum. Public speeches and political agenda were discussed in the Agora, as well as market development and economic activities. Very simple things also occurred in this place, such as people playing music and acting out dramas. The Agora was the center of