Question 1

Define the following terms: hegemon

Accepted Answer

A hegemon is a state, organization, or group that has predominant influence or leadership over others. In the context of international relations, a hegemon is often a dominant country that has the power to enforce the rules of the global political and economic order, often through a combination of its economic, military, technological, and cultural strength.

The term "hegemony" comes from the Greek word "hegemonia," which means leadership or rule. In historical contexts, hegemony often referred to the leadership or paramount influence exercised by one city-state over others, such as the Athenian leadership in the Delian League during the 5th century BCE.

In modern times, a hegemonic power can shape the preferences and actions of other states in various ways, including:

1. Diplomatic leadership: The hegemon may lead international coalitions or organizations, setting agendas and mediating disputes.
2. Economic influence: Through its economic might, a hegemon can establish and maintain the dominant economic systems and institutions, such as the Bretton Woods system after World War II, led by the United States.
3. Military capability: A hegemonic state often possesses a powerful military that can project power globally, deterring potential adversaries and providing security guarantees to allies.
4. Cultural dominance: The hegemon's culture, language, and ideology may become widespread, influencing other societies and shaping global norms and values.

The concept of hegemony is also important in cultural and ideological contexts, where it refers to the dominance of a particular set of ideas, cultural norms, or social practices that become accepted as the status quo, often benefiting the dominant social group.

In summary, a hegemon is a leading or dominant force that has the capacity to influence, direct, or control others in various domains, whether through direct coercion or more subtle means of setting standards and norms.

Question 2

Define the following terms: nemesis

Accepted Answer

The term "nemesis" has its origins in Greek mythology and has evolved in its usage over time. In its original context, Nemesis was the goddess of retribution, who meted out justice to those who succumbed to hubris (excessive pride or self-confidence). She was often depicted as a figure of balance, ensuring that no individual received too much good fortune without some form of consequence, thereby maintaining equilibrium.

In modern usage, the word "nemesis" has taken on a broader meaning. It generally refers to an arch-enemy or formidable rival who seems unbeatable or is a constant source of trouble. A nemesis is someone or something that a person cannot overcome or that consistently causes them significant difficulty. This could be an opponent in sports, a rival in business, or even a fictional villain in literature or film.

The term can also imply a source of just punishment or downfall that is the direct result of one's own actions, reflecting back to the original mythological concept of retribution. In this sense, a person's nemesis is often seen as an agent of poetic justice, delivering consequences that are deserved based on the individual's behavior.

In summary, a nemesis is an adversary or a force that represents a significant challenge or obstacle, often characterized by a long-standing rivalry or conflict, and in classical mythology, it is the personification of divine retribution.

Question 3

Define the following terms: hubris

Accepted Answer

Hubris is a term that originates from ancient Greek, where it was used to describe a personality quality of extreme or foolish pride or dangerous overconfidence, often in combination with arrogance. In its modern usage, hubris still retains these connotations and is often associated with a lack of humility, an inflated sense of one's personal status or capabilities, and a disregard for the natural limits of human abilities.

In literature and drama, characters exhibiting hubris often challenge the gods or violate moral or societal norms, leading to their eventual downfall. This concept is a common theme in Greek tragedies, where the protagonist's excessive pride sets the stage for their tragic end, serving as a moral lesson about the dangers of overstepping one's bounds.

In contemporary contexts, hubris can be seen in various situations where individuals or leaders become overly confident in their decisions and actions, ignoring advice, warnings, or evidence that contradicts their beliefs or plans. This can result in significant mistakes or failures, as their overconfidence blinds them to potential risks and flaws in their judgment.

Question 4

Define the following terms: Sparta

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Question 5

Define the following terms: Athens

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Question 6

Define the following terms: Classical Greece

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Question 7

Define the following terms: Xerxes

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Question 8

Define the following terms: oligarchy

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Question 9

Define the following terms: helots

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Question 10

Define the following terms: Archaic Greece

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Question 11

Define the following terms: Peloponnesian War

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Question 12

Define the following terms: Crete

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Question 13

Define the following terms: demokratia

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Question 14

Define the following terms: Minoa

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Question 15

Define the following terms: Ionians

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Question 16

Define the following terms: Sappho

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Question 17

Define the following terms: Mycenaeans

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Question 18

Define the following terms: Pericles

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Question 19

Define the following terms: Pisistratus

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Question 20

Define the following terms: hoplite phalanx

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Quiz 3: The Greeks in the Polis to CA 350 B.C