I have to debate on why Athens is better than Sparta as a city state using the topic of women and children. I can't find anything to say on why Athens is better with the way they treat their women because in Sparta they have more privilege and rights. Can anyone help?
http://www.google.com/#q=Sparta+Athens+women+children
thanks
Certainly! While it may initially seem challenging to argue that Athens is better than Sparta when it comes to the treatment of women, there are still a few points you can consider. When researching this topic, it's important to keep in mind that historical records may have some biases or limitations. However, you can focus on the following aspects to support your argument for Athens:
1. Education and Intellectual Development: In Athens, women were generally not formally educated, but there were exceptions. Women from affluent families may have received some education at home, which included basic literacy, music, and dance. Additionally, in the later years of Athens, some prominent intellectual women, such as Aspasia and Diotima, had a significant influence on philosophers and writers. You can argue that, despite limitations, Athens allowed certain women to engage in intellectual and cultural activities.
2. Social Participation: While women's participation in public life was limited in Athens, they were still able to engage in various social activities. Women had access to religious ceremonies, festivals, and even had their own festivals, such as the Thesmophoria. These events provided opportunities for women to socialize and contribute to the cultural life of Athens.
3. Family Life: In Athens, women primarily had roles within the household, managing affairs related to childcare, household management, and marriage. While this may seem restrictive, you can argue that a stable and prosperous family life was highly valued in Athens. The city-state saw the family unit as essential for the well-being of society and placed it at the center of their social structure.
When making your argument, it would be helpful to acknowledge and address the advantages that Spartan women had in relation to their rights and freedoms. However, you can emphasize how Athens, despite its limitations, provided opportunities for intellectual and social engagement and valued the institution of family. Remember to support your points with historical evidence and provide further context to strengthen your overall argument.