Antiquity

Ancient history begins with the advent of writing in ancient Greece (circa 800 BCE) and ends with the fall of the Roman Empire (circa 400 CE).   It can be divided into three periods.

The Hellenic Period

During the first phase of antiquity, the Greeks (the "Hellenics") acquire literacy, national power, and high culture.

The Hellenistic Period

During subsequent phases of antiquity, Greek culture spreads (the region is "Greekified" or "Hellenized");

The Roman Period

The Romans pick up Greek culture, Latinize it, and spread it further.