History
The history of Greece can be traced back to Stone Age hunters.
Later came early farmers and the civilizations of the Minoan and Mycenaean kings. This was followed by a period of wars and invasions, known as the Dark Ages.
In about 1100 BC, a people called the Dorians invaded from the north and spread down the west coast.
In the period from 500-336 BC Greece was divided into small city states, each of which consisted of a city and its surrounding countryside.
Greek houses, in the 6th and 5th century BCE, were made up of two or three rooms, built around an open air courtyard, built of stone, wood, or clay bricks.
Larger homes might also have a kitchen, a room for bathing, a men's dining room, and perhaps a woman's sitting area.
Although the Greek women were allowed to leave their homes for only short periods of time, they could enjoy the open air, in the privacy of their courtyard.
Much of ancient Greek family life centered around the courtyard.
The ancient Greeks loved stories and fables.
One favorite family activity was to gather in the courtyard to hear these stories, told by the mother or father.
In their courtyard, Greek women might relax, chat, and sew.