Aristotle on the Nature of the Greek Polis - Essay Example

The title of the issue shows that this section of the book talks about classical world and phenomenon of polis in ancient Greek history1. This chapter helps us understand the importance of Greek polis, which lasts for only two centuries. Further, it is noticeable from this chapter that Greek poleis were politically established and philosophical implications had a long term effect on Greek cities and practices of the societal members2. Characterization of the cities reflects their nature such as political and philosophical influence on the cities showed their aristocratic nature.

It is evident from the aristocratic touch that has been observed from the cities` festival, cultural practices, temples and energetic blood relationships. 3Further this section of the book highlights that family bonds were categorized in various categories depending upon their educational statuses and power distribution among the citizens. It helps us learn that ethically these sub-divisions are made correctly because with respect to norms and cultural values of the societies, categorization should base upon the constitutional actions of the citizens within the community.

The author of the chapter clearly stated, "The importance of polis is not cultural, but institutional. This statement shows that the Greek cities were not famous or important because of the people`s cultural rituals and practices, but mainly because of its organizational value. It means the manner in which the Poleis of the Greek were designed and established to maintain good standard of living4.Additionally; it is more because poleis of the Greek were more in political control rather than tribal influence.

This source assist us insight the socio-political matters of the Greek cities and their fundamentals of sub-divisions in the societies. This source further informs about the influence of Hesiod, Plato and Aristotle and the way their role influenced both rich and poor people of the society. Additionally, it has noticed that impact of Aristotle and Plato had modified the diplomatic matter of the regions such as Sparta and Athens. Mostly importantly this source helps us understand the reason behind downfall of Greek polis.

The author has quoted "the pathos of the polis was the pathos of a dynamic participation of the people in a culture and originated in the aristocratic society. Further it has explained that because of aristocratic attributes citizens of the polis were unable to get chance of becoming true members of the state. This section of the book clearly reflect nature and characteristics of the Greek culture in which local institutions had a major role and they formed to keep poleis away from the big territories and unity of the societal members was not secured.

Further, promises that were made to bring positive changes in the Greek societies and to improve standard of living of the people are clearly mentioned to help us understand the efforts made by the Greek people to maintain socio-cultural practices of their communities5. However, despite such efforts there was no unity among the citizens and maintenance of the Greek Poleis was in danger and at last it came to an end6.This source has provided detailed information about Aristotle`s role and downfall the Greek cities.

Undoubtedly, this source has explored historical