Spartan Life Vs Athenian Life Essay
Last week we were introduced to the political and social structures of Sparta and Athens. Initially, the two ancient Greek poleis appeared complete opposites, but study proved there were some similarities. I will compare the daily life of Spartans and Athenians based on my impressions from our studies.
Spartan life was quite different than other ancient Greek poleis with their warrior mentality. It appears that everything was thought out for the benefit of the Spartan state rather than individuality. We find evidence of infanticide, which the Gerousia determined whether or not a baby was “fit” to be a Spartan warrior or woman. If a baby was judged inferior they would be thrown away to fend for itself and most likely result …show more content…
Metics, although not citizens, were allowed to maintain a lucrative life in many professions such as trading, craftsmen, and many others. They were not given any voice in politics or the judicial system unless they had Athenian sponsorship. Slaves, which were the lowest class of inhabitants, were considered private property. This allowed individual Athenian families to own at least one slave for their benefit. Slaves would be allowed to carry out a wide variety of jobs including mining to policing. Also, unlike the Helots, the slaves in Athens could purchase their freedom earning the status of metic. (Brand, n.d.)
Many people in modern society don’t realize the vast difference in difference in political correctness as compared to the ancient Greek societies. This includes infanticide, patriarchy, and slavery, all of which were acceptable in ancient Greek societies. Today, governments and societies fight against these issues for the most part and enjoy a great deal of freedoms comparably.
As we have seen, the Spartans had a state military centered priority; whereas, the Athenians allowed a more liberal society to flourish. This helped Athens establish some of the greatest philosophical works, mathematical and scientific discoveries, and, of course, the establishment of democracy. Although there were similarities and differences, both societies had daily life that was beneficial from their perspective and
Spartan life was quite different than other ancient Greek poleis with their warrior mentality. It appears that everything was thought out for the benefit of the Spartan state rather than individuality. We find evidence of infanticide, which the Gerousia determined whether or not a baby was “fit” to be a Spartan warrior or woman. If a baby was judged inferior they would be thrown away to fend for itself and most likely result …show more content…
Metics, although not citizens, were allowed to maintain a lucrative life in many professions such as trading, craftsmen, and many others. They were not given any voice in politics or the judicial system unless they had Athenian sponsorship. Slaves, which were the lowest class of inhabitants, were considered private property. This allowed individual Athenian families to own at least one slave for their benefit. Slaves would be allowed to carry out a wide variety of jobs including mining to policing. Also, unlike the Helots, the slaves in Athens could purchase their freedom earning the status of metic. (Brand, n.d.)
Many people in modern society don’t realize the vast difference in difference in political correctness as compared to the ancient Greek societies. This includes infanticide, patriarchy, and slavery, all of which were acceptable in ancient Greek societies. Today, governments and societies fight against these issues for the most part and enjoy a great deal of freedoms comparably.
As we have seen, the Spartans had a state military centered priority; whereas, the Athenians allowed a more liberal society to flourish. This helped Athens establish some of the greatest philosophical works, mathematical and scientific discoveries, and, of course, the establishment of democracy. Although there were similarities and differences, both societies had daily life that was beneficial from their perspective and