First things first: Today we will learn about the “polis” First things first: Today we will learn about the “polis”. In your journal/binder, write down any words that you can think of that begin with “poli.” Do the words have anything in common?

The Polis Chapter 10: Section 1

The Polis The polis or city state was the geographic and political center of Greek life. Each city state would have its own laws and government. The average city state had between 5,000 and 10,000 citizens. Made up of the acropolis, and the villages and farmlands surrounding

The Acropolis A polis was first made up of farming villages, fields, and orchards, which surrounded an acropolis The acropolis is a fortified hill where people would retreat in times of danger. The top was a temple dedicated to the local god. At the bottom was the agora, or an open air market for artisans and traders. Artisans, traders, and upper class settled near the agora, and it became a city.

The Parthenon

The Acropolis and Agora

Greek Citizens A Greek Citizen was: born within Greece male an adult A citizen could: vote own property hold public office speak for themselves in court

Greek Citizens A Greek Citizen was expected to: participate in government defend the polis in times of war or conflict Had a great sense of civic duty An honorable man would put the good of the polis above everything else Held loyalty to polis because it gave them a great sense of belonging