Many cultures create a mythology to help explain the workings of the world. Western civilization is most familiar with the gods and goddesses of Greek and Roman mythology, who have comparable powers, but different names. And mythology is created often in response to human history, so a historical timeline can be a good reference to have.

Ancient Greece is famous for its history, literature, architecture, philosophy… the list goes on! Here you will find a basic introduction to this fascinating civilization, including a map of the empire and a timeline detailing important periods and events that shaped this part of history.Map of ancient GreeceWant to impress people with your knowledge of ancient Greece?

The predominant mythologies handed down through the ages are those of the Greeks and Romans. The Greek mythology names and the Roman mythology names of each culture include gods and goddesses who interacted with humans, with good, bad, and indifferent motives. Vuk Kostic / ShutterstockZeus throwing lightning Zeus (a Greek god) is depicted here throwing lightning.

The most complete version of the Greek creation myths that survives is a poem called the Theogony ("Birth of the Gods") by a poet named Hesiod, who lived in the late eighth or early seventh century B.C. (that is, the low-numbered 700s or high-numbered 600s BC). Not much is known about Hesiod except that his dad lost all of his money when his ship sank, and his brother tried to rob him of his inheritance.

Keep this helpful timeline in hand to remind yourself of the significant periods of time and essential events that took place throughout this important part of world history. 2600 BC: Beginning of the Minoan Period 1450 BC: Development of Linear B writing 1400 BC: Foundation of Mycenaean Palaces Bronze Age 1370 BC: Palace complex at Knossos destroyed.

Want to impress people with your knowledge of Ancient Greece? Print out and pin up this handy map as a quick and useful point of reference.