What does the Greek concept of "sophrosyne" have to do with understanding Greek culture?

Question

Sophrosyne means: know thyself, know one's limitations. Avoidance of excess extremes.

Answer 1

Sophrosyne (σοφροσύνη) is a Greek philosophical term etymologically meaning 'moral sanity' and from there 'self control' or 'moderation'.

Greeks upheld the ideal of sophrosyne, which means wisdom and moderation but ultimately its complex meaning, so important to the Ancients, is very difficult to convey in English. It is perhaps best expressed by the two most famous sayings of the oracle at Delphi: "Nothing in excess", and "Know thyself".

The term suggests a happiness obtained when one's philosophical needs are satisfied, resembling the idea of enlightenment through harmonious living. It is a nearly lost Classical ideal, but enjoying some revival today with its emphasis on individuals to live within the proportions of reason and nature, this being achieved through wisdom and self knowledge