The Hellenistic period was a time of great change and transformation for the Greek world. It was a period of political, economic, and social upheaval that began with the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC and ended with the Roman conquest of Greece in 146 BC. The Hellenistic period is often considered to be a time of decline for the Greek world, but it was also a time of great creativity and achievement.
During the Hellenistic period, the Greek world was divided into a number of small kingdoms. These kingdoms were often at war with each other, and this led to a period of political instability. The economic situation was also difficult, as the Kingdoms competed for resources. This competition led to a decline in trade and an increase in prices.
The social structure of the Greek world was also transformed during the Hellenistic period. The traditional aristocratic families lost their power, and a new class of wealthy merchants and landowners emerged. This new class had more money than the old aristocracy, and they used this money to buy up land and gain political power.
The Hellenistic period was also a time of great cultural achievement. The Greeks continued to produce great art, literature, and philosophy during this time. Artwork from this time includes:
- The Nike of Samothrace
- The Venus de Milo
- The Pergamon Altar