What are some nation-states in the middle east?

What influence has Greece had on the Middle East?

• Greek influence on Europe is well known- Heck, just about everything in Rome was based on a Greek design (from architecture to mythology, language , etc) . How did the Greeks influence the Middle East? i'm assuming the Byzantine Empire spread Greek/roman influences.... Modern middle eastern music sound very Greek- The Greek alphabet is used by the Russians- do any Middle Eastern cultures have a similar Greek style alphabet? In what ways did Greece influence and shape the Middle East?

• Answer:

  Greek influence in the Middle East is profound although less evident. Keep in mind that The Greek city states were always in close contact with the people of the Middle East either for commerce or warfare. Alexander the Great spread Greek culture till India and beyond. During the Hellenistic years Greek was the Lingua Franka of the Middle East, and the Byzantine Empire for over 1000 years shapes the region. Also during the dark Ages Greek sciences flourished in the courts of the Caliphate. Also large Greek communities were living in the middle East more or less till 1950's. However Greek culture was not compatible with Islam, so it was largelly suppressed, as the Influence of the Roman culture was.