Greek Influence On Western Civilization

Throughout history, two movements have had a significant impact on Western civilization: the spread of Greek culture and the religion of Christianity. The rise of Greek influence brought with it a new form of government, language, history, and beliefs. Additionally, a very influential part of the growth of Western civilization was the rise of Christianity. Christianity preached an inviting message of acceptance and salvation from sins. Both of these movements made a lasting impression because they continue to be a part of our world today. Two men that played a role in the popularity of these movements and providing explanation for the purpose of humanity were the Greek philosopher Plato, and the theologian Saint Augustine who served as a bishop of North Africa. The philosophies of Plato and Saint Augustine argued that an individual must not allow their surroundings to change them. Both encouraged an individual to live differently in
Because of this, belief was not beneficial for the soul because there was no way to prove exactly what the mind believed. Truth, unlike belief, brings goodness and knowledge, which are beneficial to the soul. Whereas knowledge provides light for the soul, belief dims the soul. In seeking true reality, the individual moves beyond belief to seek knowledge of what is attainable. This upward journey to seeking true reality and knowledge is how Plato believed an individual saved himself or herself from the world.
In contrast, Saint Augustine believed that Christians could do nothing to save themselves from sin. In order to find redemption from their sin, Christians needed to realize their own sinfulness. Sin fills the soul, and not only causes a separation from a relationship with God, but it also weighs down the heart with impurity. In order to save our hearts and the entire creation from this impurity of sin, God enters into sin through His Son, Jesus, on the