This paper explores both the Greek and Roman culture and their far-reaching effects on modern Western thinking. The author explores how Greek philosophers, and their use of logic and insistence on reasons to support claims about the universe and human existence, represent a crucial first step towards science of today. Future civilizations took from the Romans their meaning of honor, patriotism, and unrelenting sense of assured self. The paper continues to discuss that both the Greeks and the Romans used war to gain territory, a negative trait that is still strongly felt in society today.
From the Paper:
"Both the Greeks and the Romans exemplified war, which led to their negative legacy. From the begging of Greek history starting with the Mycenaeans, and the Romans starting with the Roman Republic, war has been the patriarchal duty of the male citizen. War became more than just a way to conquer lands, but it embodied the essence of what a man was made of. If a soldier risked his life in war for his civilization and came out a hero because he proved himself to be stronger and fitter than the opposing side, he had almost reached god stature. The idea of fighting to these societies became more of a game than it was a defense. Honor and valor of the male citizen depended on his performance in battle."
Ancient Greek and Roman Society (2012, January 15). Retrieved February 13, 2012, from http://www.academon.com/Essay-Ancient-Greek-and-Roman-Society/65176