What does the term "city-state" refer to in ancient Greece?

The term "city-state" in ancient Greece refers to an independent self-governing city. In this context, a city-state, or "polis," was a fundamental political unit characterized by its own governing institutions, laws, and customs, as well as an urban center that was distinct from surrounding territories. Each city-state, such as Athens, Sparta, and Corinth, functioned independently and exerted control over the surrounding land and villages, often establishing colonies and trade networks beyond their immediate area.

This structure allowed for a high degree of political and cultural autonomy, with citizens participating actively in governance and civic life. The city-state model was central to the political and social organization of ancient Greece and influenced the development of democracy and other forms of governance in the region.

In contrast, the other options refer to different political structures that do not encapsulate the essence of a city-state. For instance, an empire governed by a single ruler suggests a centralized authority over a vast territory, while a rural area controlled by nobles depicts feudal systems rather than independent city governance. Lastly, a vast territory without individual governance indicates a lack of city-state autonomy and organization, which is contrary to the defining characteristics of city-states in ancient Greece.