Comparing the Byzantines and Ancient Greeks: Culture, Religion, and Legacy

The Byzantines and ancient Greeks share a rich history intertwined with each other. While their relationship is often underplayed, they share a significant amount of cultural, religious, and historical similarities. This article aims to explore the key similarities between these two groups and shed light on their distinct differences.

Cultural Continuity and Contrast

Byzantines, the residents of the city of Byzantium, were not direct descendants of the ancient Greeks who lived there before their time. Despite this, the Byzantines adopted and refined many aspects of Greek culture, especially during their existence within the Roman Empire period. The city of Byzantium, also known as He-Goat City, has been continuously inhabited for over 3500 years, making it a cultural melting pot that preserved the legacy of every culture that ever settled there.

Constantinople: A Historical Focal Point

Byzantium's modern name, Constantinople, is a testament to its significance. The city is indeed a focal point of the Greco-Thracian epoch, starting around 1000 BC. Despite countless changes and invasions over millennia, evidence of the city's rich cultural heritage can be found everywhere, showcasing the continuous influence of Greek, Roman, and other cultures.

Religious Differences

The key difference between the Byzantines and the ancient Greeks lies in their religious beliefs. The ancient Greeks were polytheistic, worshipping a pantheon known as the Greek Pantheon. A significant portion of ancient Greek culture deeply influenced Roman society, which eventually adopted many of their deities. By the time of Roman Byzantium, most Romans understood that their own polytheistic pantheon was based almost entirely on the Greek pantheon.

Adoption of Christianity

While the ancient Greeks adhered to the worship of the Greek pantheon of gods, the Byzantine Empire adopted a new religious belief: Christianity. The Byzantine Empire, particularly during its peaks, was characterized by its Greek Orthodox Christian faith. In contrast, the Romans also adopted Christianity, but it often coexisted with various pagan practices. This transition to Christianity marked a significant shift from pagan to monotheistic worship among the Byzantines.

Legacy and Influence

The ancient Greeks' influence on Western values cannot be overstated. Nearly all modern Western moral, philosophical, and intellectual values can trace their roots to ancient Greek thought. Meanwhile, the Eastern Roman Empire, or the Byzantine Empire, played a pivotal role in shaping Eastern European culture, primarily through the spread of Greek Orthodox Christianity. The Romans labeled the Byzantines as the Greek Empire, highlighting the deep connection between these two cultures.

Spread of Cultural and Religious Influence

The Greek Orthodox faith, with its distinct practices and traditions, spread throughout Eastern Europe. This influence helped integrate Eastern Europe into a network of cultural and religious practices that were foundational to the region's identity. The Byzantine Empire's legacy is not just in its architectural achievements but also in its spiritual and cultural contributions to the broader Eastern world.

Conclusion

The Byzantines and ancient Greeks share a complex and multifaceted relationship. While they differed in religion and some cultural practices, the Byzantines adopted a significant portion of Greek culture, making them both Greek and Hellenized Romans. Their shared legacy continues to influence modern societies, shaping our understanding of history and culture.