The Cradle of Civilization and the Greeks

The Cradle of Civilization sets the stage for the development of western civilization, introducing students to the inhabitants of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Assyria, Persia, and the early Medditeranean. In addition to introducing student to the rise of cities and nations that will play a critical role in the development of early Israel, it is also important to explain how the rise of agriculture, writing, art, technology, and architecture prepared teh West for the cultural advancements of Greece and Rome. Familiarity with myths, stories, kings and art of the ancient near east will give students the necessary background to understand how the call to Israel as God's Chosen People distinguishes them from the surrounding nations. 

Ancient Greek culture is at the foundation of western civilization, and its contribution cannot be overstated. Greek philosophy, art, and politics have been studied and imitated throughout history. The Greeks were the first to think critically and systematically about the world and what it meant to be a virtuous human being, and the transcendent ideals of truth, goodness, and beauty are illustrated in their mythology, literature, art and architecture. They laid the foundation for mathematics, astronomy, science, and medicine. Their military skill helped to preserve their autonomy and led to their conquest of the entire ancient Middle East which brought Greek thought and practices to the Medditeranean world. Into this world was born the Roman Empire and later Christianity, both of which adopted many elements of Greek worldview. Although Greek power was replaced by Rome, Greek thought and influence was so pervasive that even today we remain deeply indepbted to the Greeks for much of how we understand the world.