In ancient Greece, what was a key characteristic of a citizen?

In ancient Greece, a key characteristic of a citizen was the ability to vote and participate in government. This civic engagement was foundational to the concept of citizenship in city-states like Athens, where political life revolved around direct participation in assemblies and decision-making processes. Citizens were expected to take part in the democratic functions of their polis, not just as voters but also as contributors to civic and political discourse. This definition is rooted in the democratic ideals of ancient Greece, particularly during the classical period when the practice of democracy flourished.

Ownership of land, while significant in some respects, was not universally required for citizenship, as there were different types of citizens based on various societal roles. Foreigners, by their nature, were non-citizens and did not possess the rights accorded to citizens, including voting and holding public office. Lastly, women's status in ancient Greece often excluded them from participating in public life, rendering them non-citizens in most contexts despite their roles within the family. Thus, the ability to vote and engage in government encapsulates the essence of citizenship in ancient Greece effectively.