What Are The Similarities Between Athens And Sparta

3) Essay:Greek Polis

The greeks city state, and often had a single city with land it controlled surrounding it. I like to think of it like a modern state and how people hailing from each has their own identity, their own patron, politicians and sayings. Each polis was unique and vibrant and each had a different flavor of greek culture. Each having an army, assembly, patron deity and identity and a feeling of local identity almost city before country. Contrast is often a good way to compare two things of similar nature but with different feature. Comparing the benefits and drawbacks of two polis, both of which powerful and impactful throughout their history is Athens and Sparta. In Athens there was political participation as there was an open forum where people spoke about issues and discussed problems. It was a democracy but at times it can get unruly and sometimes mob rule would ensue. However in Sparta there was a counsel of elderly men who proposed the topics on which to vote on. They met once a month and all citizens could vote simply by shouting.
Sparta had many if not all of its male citizens serving in the army. This didn't leave much room for other professions. Food was simple such are barely, cheese,figs and wine. Their army was professional and effective. They were feared throughout greece for their strength and focus on their military. Athens however had a great navy. However the method and use of the navy was not a good thing to do. Offering protection from the persians the athenians had offered neighboring polis with contributions they can build a navy rivaling the persians. However the athenians were quick to fly their banners and charge taxes from the other states and fed their own pockets in a near mob like manner. This is the ultimate example of how the military was loyal to their polis and both these examples shows great patriotism amongst the city