Name: _________________________________ Date: ____________________________

Worksheet: Comparing Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome

Ancient Greece was composed of many city-states, such as Athens and Sparta, often separated by mountains
and located near the sea. This geography led to independent communities with their own governments. In
contrast, Ancient Rome was centered inland along the Tiber River. Rome expanded to control vast territories,
uniting them under a single government.

Greek artists aimed for ideal beauty in their sculptures, creating graceful and balanced figures. Roman artists,
however, focused on realism, portraying people with all their unique features. While Romans admired Greek
art and often copied it, they also developed their own styles, especially in building structures like arches and
domes.

Both civilizations relied heavily on agriculture. Greeks typically lived on small farms, growing crops like
wheat, olives, and grapes. However, poor farming practices sometimes led to food shortages. Romans managed
large estates that produced similar crops and also built extensive trade networks to supply their cities.

The Greeks believed in many gods and goddesses, such as Zeus, Athena, and Apollo, each overseeing different
aspects of life. The Romans adopted many of these deities but gave them new names—Zeus became Jupiter,
and Athena became Minerva. Religion played a central role in both societies, influencing daily life and
governance.

In Athens, a form of democracy allowed free male citizens to participate in decision-making. Rome began as a
republic, where citizens elected leaders, but eventually became an empire ruled by emperors like Julius
Caesar. This shift marked a significant change in how power was distributed in Roman society.

Greeks enjoyed theater, festivals, and athletic competitions like the Olympic Games. Romans favored grand
spectacles, including gladiator fights in large arenas such as the Colosseum. Both cultures valued entertainment
but had different preferences in how they spent their leisure time.
Question 1: Answer the following questions
a. How were Greek city-states like Athens and Sparta different from the Roman Empire in terms of
geography and government?
b. What was the main difference between Greek and Roman art?
c. Which crops did both civilizations grow on their farms?
d. How did the Romans change the Greek gods to fit their own culture?
e. What form of government did Athens have? What about Rome?
Question 2: Compare & Contrast
Write two similarities and two differences between Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome:
Two Similarities:
a.
b.
Two Differences:
a.
b.
Question 3: Reflect and Express
a. If you could visit Ancient Greece or Ancient Rome, which one would you choose and why?
b. Do you think democracy (like in Athens) or an empire (like in Rome) is better for people? Explain your
choice.