Greek and barbarian - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Greek and Barbarian: What did it truly mean to be either? The terms, seemingly straightforward, define a chasm – real or imagined – between the ancient Greeks and the myriad peoples surrounding them. Yet, peel back the layers of definition, and you’ll find a concept riddled with complexity, evolving biases, and lasting repercussions that continue to shape our understanding of civilization itself.
The earliest known usages of "barbaros" appear in Homeric texts (c. 8th century BCE), initially referring to those speaking unintelligible languages, a simple matter of onomatopoeia mimicking foreign sounds. As Greek city-states rose to prominence, particularly during the Classical period (5th-4th centuries BCE), the term took on a decidedly cultural dimension. Herodotus, in his Histories, vividly recounts the Persian Wars (499-449 BCE), casting the Persians as a monolithic "barbarian" threat to Greek liberty and self-governance. The lines were drawn, but was the distinction based on genuine difference or strategic othering to solidify a sense of shared Greek identity?
The evolution of "barbarian" exposes the Greeks' own growing self-awareness and, arguably, their prejudice. By the time of Aristotle (384-322 BCE), the concept had hardened. In his Politics, he posits a natural hierarchy, suggesting that Greeks were destined to rule over barbarians, whom he deemed intellectually inferior and naturally suited for subservience. Yet, figures like Alexander the Great, who adopted Persian customs and incorporated diverse cultures into his empire, challenged this rigid dichotomy. This raises a fascinating question: did the term "barbarian" truly describe inherent characteristics, or was it a fluid label, strategically applied based on political and social needs?
The legacy of "Greek and barbarian" extends far beyond the ancient world. The Roman Empire, inheriting much of Greek culture, further solidified the concept of the civilized Roman versus the "barbarian" tribes on its borders. The echoes of this ancient distinction resonate even today, informing discussions about cultural identity, immigration, and the perceived superiority of certain societies over others. The very notion of "civilization" is inextricably linked to the ancient Greek understanding of civilization versus barbarism. Is it time to redefine these terms, acknowledging their inherent biases and historical context, or does the ancient dichotomy still hold relevance in a globalized world?