Compare and contrast Sparta (A) and Athens (B). How are they alike/different? You can use the Venn Diagram below or create your own list. HINT: The middle circle should contain characteristics they share in common
Sparta (A):
1. Government: Ruled by two kings who served as military commanders. Also had a council of elders and an assembly of citizens.
2. Society: Highly militaristic and focused on warfare. Men received military training from a young age, and women had more freedom and physical education than in other Greek city-states.
3. Economy: Relied on agriculture, primarily cultivating grain and grapes. Slaves, known as helots, performed most of the agricultural labor.
4. Education: Emphasis on physical training and discipline. Young boys left home at the age of seven to live in military barracks and learn fighting skills.
5. Culture: Limited interest in artistic, intellectual, and philosophical pursuits. Values bravery, discipline, and loyalty to the state above all else.
Athens (B):
1. Government: Considered the birthplace of democracy. Citizens participated in decision-making through an assembly where they could propose and debate new laws.
2. Society: More focused on education, philosophy, and intellectual pursuits. Women had limited rights and were expected to focus on household duties.
3. Economy: Dependent on trade, commerce, and industry. Known for pottery, silver, and marble production. Slavery was a common practice.
4. Education: Valued well-rounded education and intellectual development. Boys received formal education in subjects like math, music, and philosophy.
5. Culture: Known for its artistic, literary, and philosophical contributions to Western civilization. Prominent philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle emerged from Athens. Major patron of arts and held annual drama festivals.
Shared Characteristics:
1. Greek city-states: Both Sparta and Athens were prominent city-states in ancient Greece.
2. Polytheism: Both believed in and worshiped Greek gods and goddesses, such as Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon.
3. Slavery: Both city-states relied on slaves to perform labor, although the treatment of slaves differed between them.
4. Territory: Both were located in the region known as ancient Greece, with Athens being situated in Attica and Sparta in Laconia.
5. Language: Both spoke the Greek language.
6. Olympic Games: Both participated in and valued the ancient Olympic Games as a significant sporting and cultural event.