Difference Between Athens And Sparta

The Oligarchy of Sparta was more efficient and stable compared to Athens because of its laws, structure, and culture. The city-state of Sparta had strict laws for the conduct of its citizens which promoted the welfare of the whole community. Athens democracy was constantly voting to enact laws which were often controlled by mob rule. Sparta’s government was controlled by the elites and elders of the community. Athens was ruled by the common man who was ill equipped to rule. Spartan culture was much more unified and allowed women to play a pivotal role in the state. Finally, Athens culture was deeply rooted in thought, but often led to violence and mob rule.
Sparta and Athens had starkly different laws by which to govern their people. The city-state
Spartan citizens relied on helots to do their work and did not value the same qualities as the Athenians. Spartan women were educated could do sports and had authority unlike Athenian women (HIST, 2013, p. 8). Both societies were influenced by the works of Homer in religion and culture. The Greeks used the term “arete” which means excellence. However, the two rival city-states had different interpretations of what this meant. Sparta saw this quality as being a courageous and ruthless warrior. Their whole existence was dependent on how they performed in the battlefield. The Spartans were criticized for their narrow-minded view of “arete” by the Athenians (HIST, 2013, p. 8). Athenian society viewed this term as excellence in all areas of life. This included the development of the mind and senses not just the
First, the laws where effective and promoted the welfare of the state and did not serve the interests of individuals. The wealthy and the poor had commonality and worked as a unit loyal to its self. The Athenian laws were based on direct rule of the majority and did not guarantee that one was safe from mob rule. Athens promoted freedom of the citizen yet failed to effectively institute a system that was efficient and secured the rights of the individual. This is exemplified in the structure of the two respective governments. Sparta had thirty total officials while Athens had over a thousand. Spartan culture was rigid and difficult, but supported the excellence of its warriors and cherished values. Athenian culture was forward thinking and dealt with all areas of life. The Spartan oligarchy was better suited to govern and protect the welfare of its