Final answer:
Ancient Greek tribal culture and mythopoetic tradition played a dual role; while they united the Greek poleis and instilled shared values, they also led to diminished political engagement during the Hellenistic period. The use of mythical symbols in their art reflects the significance of mythology in shaping their cultural identity and worldview.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tribal cultural emphasis of Ancient Greek society, deeply embedded in their myths and stories, can be regarded as both a benefit and a hindrance to their history. This cultural characteristic promoted unity among the dispersed Greek poleis through shared language, religion, and cultural practicessuch as the Panhellenic festivals and sanctuaries, which included the Olympics. Such events fostered a sense of community and encouraged interaction and competition across the Mediterranean.
However, this cultural emphasis could also be seen as a hindrance, as it faced challenges during the Hellenistic period. The indigenous population of Greek cities, having lost self-government under the rule of kings, turned away from public life and towards personal fulfilment and new syncretic religions. This suggests a decline in the political and communal involvement that had characterized earlier Greek society.
The reliance on mythical symbols and depictions in Greek art reflects the integral role of mythology in Greek culture. Myths were not just tales but proclaimed a transcendent truth, shaping the culture's worldview and influencing all aspects of life, from government to philosophy to sport. This mythopoetic nature indicates the Greeks used myth to process and communicate cultural values and to give meaning to the human experience. Greek theater, such as Euripides' "Trojan Women", demonstrates how these myths and cultural tales were used to reflect on and critique historical events, showing the depth and complexity of Greek culture.