Describe how views of adolescence changed in the West from ancient Greece through medieval times.

In ancient Greece, adolescence was viewed as a time of growth and development, both physically and mentally. Young boys were often sent to schools or gymnasiums to learn and train, while girls were typically educated at home. The focus was on preparing the youth for adulthood and the responsibilities that came with it.

During the Roman period, adolescence was seen in a similar light. Education was highly valued, and young people were expected to learn a variety of subjects, from philosophy and rhetoric to physical training. However, there was also a greater emphasis on the individual's role in society, and adolescents were often expected to start taking on adult responsibilities at a younger age.

In contrast, during the Middle Ages, the concept of adolescence as a distinct stage of life began to fade. The focus shifted from education and preparation for adulthood to survival and labor. Young people were often expected to start working at a young age, and there was less emphasis on intellectual growth and development.

However, it's important to note that these are broad generalizations and the experiences of adolescents could vary greatly depending on factors such as social class, gender, and location.