Summary:
Explain the main features and structure of the Spartan government and their significance in Spartan society. Explores how unlike Athens and other parts of Greece, Sparta was a military oligarchy, monarchy or dual kingship, and democracy all rolled into one, however there has been many debates and controversy over how this system of government came about. Describes the Spartan constitution and details how it failed to achieve a balanced social, economical or political structure.
The Spartan government was an odd affair, although its main characteristic is its potential to create and maintain stability and equality of good order (eunomia). Unlike Athens and other parts of Greece, Sparta was a military oligarchy, monarchy or dual kingship, and democracy all rolled into one, however there has been many debates and controversy over how this system of government came about. The constitution had four institution involed in the running of the political, economic and social systems, the kings, the Gerousia, the Ephors and the Assembly. Each of these organizations had their own power, rights, privileges and honours. Some say that Lycurgus the lawgiver was responsible for the strict development of the Spartan society although there is no certainty that Lycurgus had even existed. Plutarch on the other hand suggested that there might have.....
This is a free excerpt of 135 words. There are 1,428 words (approx.
5 pages at 300 words per page) in the full essay.
Read the rest of this Essay with our Spartan Society Access Pass.
