Title: Ancient Greek Tyrant: Definition & Overview - Video & Lesson Transcript | Study.com
Headings: Ancient Greek Tyrant: Definition & Overview
Ancient Greek Tyrant: Definition & Overview
Lesson Transcript
Tyrants in Ancient Greece
Pisistratus Wants to be a Hero
Dangerous Prosperity
Tyrannical Aid
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Content: We generally think of an oppressive rule by an individual. However, in the Ancient Greek world, a tyrant might be a savior or a symbol of hope for a better life. Tyrants were typically aristocratic citizens of the polis. Aristocrats were powerful political figures, but also wealthy land owners. A polis was a town or city with independent political and economic control over the surrounding countryside. However, these tyrants viewed themselves as heroes, similar to those in the Iliad, who were shaping their polis for the better. The Iliad was an epic poem describing the Trojan War with tales of fascinating heroes and gods. With the aid of common citizens, the tyrant would use force to take over or kick out the unpopular aristocrats. Once in power, they would provide public works projects, pay off unpaid debt, and build infrastructure. At times, they would even establish trade or alliances to further improve stability and prosperity throughout Ancient Greece.