What does the term Hellenistic refer to in relation to culture?

The term Hellenistic refers specifically to the period of Greek culture that emerged after the conquests of Alexander the Great, which began in the late 4th century BCE and extended into the early Roman Empire. This era is characterized by the spread of Greek culture across a vast area, influenced by the merger and blending with local cultures in regions such as Egypt, Persia, and India.

During the Hellenistic period, there was significant expansion in various fields such as art, science, philosophy, and politics, as the Greek language and cultural practices reached new audiences. The arts saw the development of new styles and themes, while philosophy experienced the rise of schools such as Stoicism and Epicureanism, reflecting a more cosmopolitan worldview.

The notion that this period signifies the transformation and diffusion of Greek culture on a global scale, as initiated by Alexander's campaigns, is why "Greek culture after Alexander the Great" aptly describes the Hellenistic era. This context emphasizes the importance of Alexander's influence in shaping not just Greek culture but also how it integrated with and affected other civilizations of the time.