A Historical and Social Analysis of Greek Wrestling

This assignment provides an in-depth analysis of Greek wrestling, examining its training processes, attire, and historical significance. It explores the evolution of wrestling practices, from the use of olive oil and sand to the shift in attire. The analysis delves into the cultural and social aspects of the sport, including its connection to religious worship and its impact on societal values. The document also highlights the changes in wrestling techniques and the historical context, comparing ancient practices with modern approaches. Furthermore, it addresses social issues related to the sport, such as the messages conveyed to children and the broader impact on society. The assignment offers a comprehensive overview of Greek wrestling, its evolution, and its lasting influence, providing valuable insights into the history and culture of ancient Greece.

Running head: ATHLETICS
ATHLETICS
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

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ATHLETICS
1. The first question was asked to throw light on the training process of the Greek Local
Wrestling that was very popular amongst people. For the Greeks, wrestling was a kind
of science that motivated youngsters to explore themselves. The question once again
brought to mind the necessity of considering the art of wrestling. The visual
description of the athletes getting ready with olive oil and sand pores makes the
readers enquire more about the game. It also shows how they were grounded to their
history and followed the old tradition of getting ready for the wrestling match. Since
music was not very common, they rehearsed along with the woodwind that again
showed the groundedness of the wrestlers. The answer to the question shows how the
wrestlers would prepare themselves for the match and how they would protect
themselves from their competitors by keeping their hair abbreviated that shielded
them. The question is quite relevant as it will prepare the athlete for his future
matches.
2. The question was asked as it helped the people to make a clear distinction between
normal day-to-day of life and the life of Greek wrestlers that was full of difficulty but
at the same time full of motivation and lessons. It answers highlights how the earlier
Greeks believed in horticulture and that the wrestling match only took place
occasionally to worship Zeus. Therefore the answer makes a relevance as the game is
connected to the worship of God. Earlier events were held to praise and worship Zeus.
However the wrestler has many interferences in his life from their fans, their diet is
changed from that of ordinary people, they devote most of their time in preparing for
the match, and they also communicate between to games to get their voices heard.
The response to the question was given so that the athlete will come to know about
the life of a wrestler and make up his mind for that kind of life. It also makes a
historical reference to Zeus and thereby shows the importance of wrestling.

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3. The third question was asked to make a comparison and contrast in the clothes that
were worn by the Greek Wrestlers and show what the changes that have taken place
regarding the attire of the wrestler are. Earlier the Greek wrestler brought olive oil,
wipe and a scrubber and applied them on hos body before the wrestling match. The oil
cup has a historical significance as it contained the typical inventory of olive oil.
However, these are no more sued y the wrestlers before the match. The technique of
dressing up has changed drastically for a wrestler. Thus by asking the above question,
an individual will be able to make a clear difference between the earlier as well as
new wrestling style. Though oil is still used now, it does not have different
compartments. The approach to wrestling has changed. The answer further highlights
the historical context of wrestling. It must be noted that the attitude of the wrestlers
has changed with the passage of time; therefore, many changes had to be made
regarding the game to meet the required ends.
4. The question again was asked to highlight why the wrestlers played as well as
practised their game in a naked manner. It still shows how the wrestlers were
grounded and paid more attention to their game instead of other criteria. Even the
classical writers wrote about wrestlers who just wore undergarments. However,
during Homer’s age, the classic wrestlers began to strip. This has a historical
background. According to Pausanias competitors had to mimic Orsippos who had
won a footrace in Olympia but had lost his undergarment during the race. Therefore,
people after that believed that it was necessary to strip in the wrestling game.
Recently many argue that being bare gave them more confidence and made them
more comfortable. The question is a relevant one as it forces the individual to ask
questions regarding the different methods that were followed in the past related to the
game and thereby make a comparison as to what changes have taken place since then.

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It also shows how earlier everything was related to history, but now they do not look
at history instead pay more attention to the opinions of the people.
5. This is a very important question as it brings to light the social issues that might be
related to the game. As it is a game that is enjoyed by all many people might overlook
the social problems related to it. It is quite a relevant question in today’s society as it
highlights one of the most social issues regarding the message that a child draws from
the game. Children feel that it is acceptable to beat others without taking into
consideration the feelings of others. However, at the same time, it also gives a social
message that in life, one has to struggle to get success and it also brings the people of
the society closer as they share universal emotions. It also makes the athlete aware of
the message that he will be delivering to society. Answering this question was
essential as it would open the eyes of many individuals towards the game and its
procedures.