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VIDEO

Free Speech in Ancient Greece

Free Speech in Ancient Greece

Learn about how the ancient Greeks viewed free speech.

Grades

6 - 12

Subjects

Geography, Human Geography, Social Studies, World History

The ancient Greeks were pioneers of free speech. Their theater, literature, and educational institutions explored the human experience, freedom of expression, and questioning of authority.

Like contemporary societies, however, ancient Greece did not allow complete freedom of speech. Leaders, philosophers, artists, and everyday citizens wrestled with balancing individual freedom and public order.

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Writer
Jeanna Sullivan, National Geographic Society
Editor
Caryl-Sue Micalizio, National Geographic Society
Producer
Sarah Appleton, National Geographic Society, National Geographic Society
other
Last Updated

October 19, 2023

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Related Resources

Funder
Arthur Vining Davis