Written Assignment 1
Greek And Roman Civilization
Uopeople
April 16, 2024
Introduction
Ancient Greece is renowned for its contributions to the development of
democratic principles and political systems. Two prominent city-states,
Athens and Sparta, each had distinctive government structures that
reflected their respective values and priorities. This paper explores how
people in Athens and Sparta obtained the right to participate in public life,
who held public office, the rules governing the selection of public office
holders, similarities, and differences in their governmental structures.
Participation in Public Life
In Athens, participation in public life was a fundamental aspect of
citizenship. Athenian citizens, typically free adult males born to Athenian
parents, had the right to participate in the Assembly, where they could vote
on legislation and major decisions affecting the community. Additionally,
citizens could serve on juries, hold public office, and engage in political
debates in the Agora, the central marketplace.
In contrast, Spartan society was characterized by a rigid social structure
and a focus on military discipline. While Spartans had a form of assembly
called the Gerousia, participation was limited to male citizens over the age
of 30 who had completed military training. Women, slaves, and non-citizens
had no political rights or participation in decision-making processes.
Public Office Holders
In Athens, public office holders were elected or appointed from among the
citizenry. The most important public office was that of the Archons, who
served as executive magistrates responsible for administering justice and
overseeing various aspects of city governance. Other offices, such as the
Council of 500 and the Boule, were filled by lottery or election.
In Sparta, public office holders were typically members of the Gerousia, a
council of elders composed of 28 men over the age of 60, plus the two
kings. The Gerousia had significant influence in shaping Spartan policies
and decisions, particularly in matters related to legislation and foreign
affairs.
Selection of Public Office Holders
In Athens, the selection of public office holders was governed by a
combination of election, lottery, and appointment. Eligible citizens could
nominate themselves or others for office, and candidates were selected
through a democratic process involving voting by the citizenry or random
selection by lot.
In Sparta, members of the Gerousia were chosen for life by Spartan citizens.
Candidates were selected based on their age, reputation, and military
achievements, ensuring that only the most respected and experienced
individuals held positions of power.
Similarities and Differences
Both Athens and Sparta were city-states with distinct governmental
structures, but they differed significantly in their values, priorities, and
political systems.
Similarities:
Both city-states had assemblies where citizens could participate in
decision-making processes.
Military service was highly valued, and both societies emphasized the
importance of discipline and obedience to authority.
Differences:
Athens was a democracy where citizenship was more inclusive, and
political participation was open to a larger segment of the population.
Sparta was an oligarchy with a rigid social hierarchy and limited political
rights for the majority of its inhabitants.
Athens prioritized individual freedom and intellectual pursuits, while Sparta
focused on military prowess and collective discipline.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the government structures of ancient Athens and Sparta
reflected their respective cultural values, social norms, and historical
circumstances. While Athens pioneered democratic principles and
promoted civic engagement among its citizens, Sparta embraced an
oligarchic system characterized by military discipline and state control.
Despite their differences, both city-states made enduring contributions to
the political development of ancient Greece and continue to fascinate
scholars and historians today.
References
Cartledge, P. (2011). Ancient Greece: A history in eleven cities. Oxford
University Press.
Plutarch. (1914). Plutarch's Lives. Translated by Bernadotte Perrin. Harvard
University Press.
Rothchild, J. A. (2007). Introduction to Athenian democracy of the fifth and
fourth centuries BCE.
Brand, P. J. (2010). Athens & Sparta: Democracy vs. dictatorship
