Hellenistic: meaning, definitions and examples
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Hellenistic
[ ˌhɛləˈnɪstɪk ]
historical period
Hellenistic refers to the period of ancient Greek history that spans from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC to the emergence of the Roman Empire. This era was characterized by the spread of Greek culture and influence across the Mediterranean and into Asia, following the conquests of Alexander. The term also describes the cultural blend that occurred between Greek, Middle Eastern, and Asian influences.
Synonyms
Greek-influenced, post-Alexandrian
Examples of usage
- Hellenistic art often features dramatic expressions.
- Many Hellenistic philosophers studied the nature of knowledge.
- The Hellenistic period saw the rise of several influential kingdoms.
Word origin
The term 'Hellenistic' derives from the Greek word 'Hellenizein,' which means 'to speak Greek or emulate Greek culture.' The word 'Hellenistic' as an English term gained prominence in the 19th century to describe the extensive cultural diffusion that occurred during the period following the conquests of Alexander the Great. This era marked a significant transition in the ancient world, where Greek language, culture, and thought spread widely, influencing local cultures across a vast territory. The Hellenistic age encompassed numerous kingdoms formed by the divisions of Alexander's Empire, including the Seleucid Empire and Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. During this time, there was a blending of Eastern and Western cultural elements, which led to advancements in art, science, philosophy, and literature, creating a rich and diverse cultural tapestry that influenced subsequent civilizations.