The Ancient Greek and Excellence

Agora- The Agora was a central spot in the ancient greek city-states. The literal meaning of the word is "gathering place" or "assembly". The Agora was the center of athletic, artistic, spiritual and political life of the city. 

Arete-  means of "excellence of any kind". This notion of excellence was ultimately bound up with the fulfillment or purpose or function. 

polis- means city in greek. It also means citizenship and body of citizens.

the year 508 b.c.-  Democracy began in Athens. Male citizens  were given the chance to vote on how the city-states should be run. 

Socrates-  was a classical greek philosopher  as one of the founders of the western philosophy. 

The death of Socrates- was charged with youth and impiety and sentenced to death. 

The Socratic method- is a form of inquiry and discussion between individuals,, based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and to illuminate ideas.

What the ancient greek meant if they called you an idiot- a private person, not interested in politics. The term they used back then ultimately became the term they use now. 

 

 http://www.schoolsliaison.org.uk/kids/access/greek/timeline_greece.htm and Wikipedia