Athens: The Dawn of Democracy

Part 2 (1x2)

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As Athenian democracy progressed, it became embroiled in the clash of new ideas with old beliefs; Athens started to tear itself apart. The story culminates in one of history's greatest paradoxes: the trial of Socrates, who was democratically judged to be executed for speaking his mind. Democracy grew against the backdrop of a brutal war between democratic Athens and authoritarian Sparta. Still, Athens attracted great thinkers and scientists. Art and culture thrived. At exactly the same time that democracy was emerging, a new, more realistic style of sculpture flourished. Drama provided a structured way to express deep feelings and fears, as Athenians used the theater to debate their problems on stage. Outrageous story lines - sons and mothers making love, mothers eating their children - were presented and openly discussed. Theater at every level was a democratic institution; playwrights were chosen by the state and paid by the state. When Sparta finally defeated Athens, the citizens looked for a scapegoat. Socrates had ridiculed the idea of government by non-experts and had coached many of the arrogant aristocrats who had failed in battle. When Socrates was condemned for impiety and the corruption of youth, he refused to compromise in any way and rejected an offer of exile. He stood trial and was condemned to death by drinking poison. Ultimately, Athenian democracy, despite its trumpeting of free speech, could not tolerate an attack on democracy itself. It was an extraordinary moment in history, but it was not strong enough to thrive and spread. The empire withered, eventually to be crushed by Alexander the Great. It would be another 2,000 years before society was once again able to tolerate the idea of democracy - rule by the people.