Democracy. An experiential role-playing game at the Museum of Cycladic Art

Middle and high school students learn the principles of Democracy in Ancient Athens through a trial simulation: they are divided into groups, solve puzzles, gather evidence, and determine the outcome through their vote.

The program takes place within the permanent exhibition “Scenes from Daily Life in Antiquity.” The children use objects from the collection and discover how the citizens of Athens participated in the political and social life of the city.

Drawing on the rhetorical method, students come to understand the role of active citizen participation, and practice building arguments as well as respecting differing opinions. The “Democracy” program transforms contact with ancient art and history into an experiential and enjoyable experience that connects ancient Athens with modern democratic values.