(Originally written July 2, 2006 in Book 2)
The History of Western Philosophy
Bertrand Russell
1974
Chapter 7 - Athens in Relation to Culture
Athenian greatness began with the two Persian wars in 490 BC & 480-79 BC. The Athenian defeat of the Persians earned them great prestige.
Athens developed a superior navy via alliances. This naval superiority turned into an Athenian Empire.
Athenian aristocracy enjoyed the rare luxury of intelligence and happiness.
Athenian culture thrived until the defeat of the city by Sparta in 404 BC. Despite eventually being surpassed by Alexandria in math and science, Athens remained supreme in philosophy.
The Academy lasted from Plato until 529 AD, 200 years after the Christianizing of the entire Roman Empire.
"At las in AD 529, it was closed by Justinian because of his religious bigotry, and the Dark Ages descended upon Europe" (Russell, 61).
Linehan - Was this truly religious bigotry? Did the closing of the Academy really cause the Dark Ages?
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