Ancient Greece, a period that began in 1000 BC, was a transition into one of the most successful periods of human civilization. The Greeks transformed art, sculpture, theater and warfare. They established the stepping stones for the future civilizations of the world. The first known Greek “writer” introduced the heroic age with the “Iliad and the Odyssey”. During this period Homer showed the great tragic flaw of heroes, which was arrogance. Hubris is defined during the time period as excessive pride or defiance towards the gods, leading to nemesis (Collins). In most Greek tragedies hubris causes a disastrous ending for many of the main characters. During the birth of ancient Greece, each city-state had a distinctive style and quite a religious, social and political point of view. Homer is considered the prime example of a writer, whether or not he composed the Iliad and the Odyssey as a whole remains a question for many scholars. Honor and glory remained the most prevalent ideas during that time period. It was a time in history when honor defined a man and glory enabled success. A glorious man was one like “Hector,” heir to the throne of the city of Troy. This was a man who fought his opponent with every inch of strength and will to protect his city. Hector is a true hero, and when he dies he fights for his city against the powerful Achilles; sets the standard for what defines a hero. It was of utmost importance for a man during this period to die in war and leave a memorable name in society. In Spartan society, even a mother was used to the idea that her son had to die to be a "hero" or perhaps be remembered as such. In the Iliad and the Odyssey, Achilles' mother... in the center of the sheet... "About.com". Ancient/classical history. McDowell Intermediate, 2011. Web. October 18, 2011. Kerrigan, Sean P. “The Pick.” In Search of Perception: The Epic Education of Achilles. Dr. Mary Sue Ply, 2011. Web. 18 October 2011. .BookS. Cunningham, Lawrence, and John J. Reich. Culture and values: a survey of the humanities. Sixth edition. Alternate volume. Belmont, California: Thomson Wadsworth, 2006. 34-47. Press.