Etymology Hellenistic period

the word originated german term hellenistisch, ancient greek Ἑλληνιστής (hellēnistḗs, 1 uses greek language ), Ἑλλάς (hellás, greece ); if hellenist + ic .

hellenistic modern word , 19th-century concept; idea of hellenistic period did not exist in ancient greece. although words related in form or meaning, e.g. hellenist (ancient greek: Ἑλληνιστής, hellēnistēs), have been attested since ancient times, johann gustav droysen in mid-19th century, in classic work geschichte des hellenismus (history of hellenism), coined term hellenistic refer , define period when greek culture spread in non-greek world after alexander s conquest. following droysen, hellenistic , related terms, e.g. hellenism, have been used in various contexts; notable such use in culture , anarchy matthew arnold, hellenism used in contrast hebraism.

the major issue term hellenistic lies in convenience, spread of greek culture not generalized phenomenon term implies. areas of conquered world more affected greek influences others. term hellenistic implies greek populations of majority in areas in settled, in many cases, greek settlers minority among native populations. greek population , native population did not mix; greeks moved , brought own culture, interaction did not occur.