lecture one Flashcards
Why does antiquity still matter in today’s world?
It laid the groundwork for modern legal systems, societal norms, governance, ethics, and human rights.
What key legal ideas originated in ancient times?
Justice, equity, and civic responsibility.
Why study ancient legal systems today?
To better interpret modern laws and understand their societal impacts.
What is the oldest known legal code?
The Code of Ur-Nammu (c. 2100–2050 BC) – emphasized equity.
What was the first well-organized surviving legal code?
The Code of Hammurabi (1755–1750 BC) – introduced “eye for an eye”.
Why did Greece and Rome become influential later?
Due to their cultural and legal longevity and legacy.
What is considered the first international treaty?
The Egyptian-Hittite peace treaty (1259 BC).
What defined Ancient Greek civilisation?
City-states (poleis) like Athens and Sparta with unique systems.
Three key historical moments in Greek longevity?
Persian Wars, Alexander the Great’s empire, rise of Rome.
What were the classes in Greek society?
Free citizens, women, and slaves – with citizens active in politics.
Key Greek architectural and sculptural achievements?
Parthenon, Temple of Artemis, Statue of Zeus.
Examples of Greek literary works?
Homer’s Iliad, Odyssey; Herodotus’s Histories.
Who were famous Greek playwrights?
Sophocles and Euripides.
What event fostered unity in Greek city-states?
The Olympic Games.
What was the role of myths and religion?
Unified the culture and served as exports.
Types of government in Greek city-states?
Monarchy (Mycenae), democracy (Athens), oligarchy (Sparta), tyranny (Corinth).
What made Athens’ legal system notable?
Public trials, juries, first amnesty law (403 BC), and ostracism.
How did Sparta maintain control?
Through harsh laws and rule over helots.
Who founded Rome (legend)?
Romulus, son of Mars, in 753 BC.
When did Rome become a Republic and then Empire?
Republic: 509 BC. Empire: 27 BC under Augustus.
When did the Roman Empire fall?
Western Empire: 476 AD. Eastern (Byzantine): 1453.
What were the Roman social classes?
Patricians, Equites, Plebeians, Freedmen, Slaves.
What influenced Roman culture?
Greek, Egyptian (e.g., Isis), and Persian (e.g., Mithras) elements.
Roman architecture breakthroughs?
Concrete use – Colosseum, Pantheon, aqueducts.
