'Account for the Social Struct
'Account for the Social structure of Spartan Society'The structure of the Spartan society developed in order to maintain control of the large discontent population of Helots. Although only speculation, this theory is also held by many modern historians. The society of the Spartans developed in order to produce superior warriors whose sole aim was to maintain their way of life through the control of the Helots. The development of a Spartan in order to become an invincible warrior involved their severe education system [agoge] compulsory to all Spartan citizens. Furthermore the Kryptia, syssition, and womens role in firstly developing strong babies were develop to enhance the discipline, austerity and devotion to the state which was critical in controlling the helots. Initially the annexation of Messene provided Sparta with a great wealth of resources, land and slaves [in addition to original Laconian slaves]. According to Kathryn Welch, this allowed the 'privileged class [Spartiates] in Sparta to become a full time army' that could concentrate on a militaristic lifestyle. Archaeological excavation of the Spartan polis show that a dramatic
In any case, it is impossible to make any definite conclusion to how the Spartan society developed. They were vital to the Spartan society in that they allowed the Spartan to continue furthering their military excellence and increasing time for public responsibilities. However in any case the Perioeci were essential to maintain the Spartan lifestyle. The development of austerity [produce in part dur to the syssitia] in Spartan citizens was probably to promote the focus on discipline and devotion to the maintaining control over the Helots. This interpretation to the reason why the Spartan society developed the way it did is only speculation. Apart from Kryptia, who killed unsuspecting Helots, the Ephor, on entering office each year declared war on the Helots. Aristotle refers to the Helots as having lives full of suffering. Anton Powell describes the Helots as 'the people who fed and clothed the Spartiates'. Plutarch explained that the physical education of girls was aimed at producing healthier bodies, so that 'the fruits they conceive might take a firmer root and find better growth'. Perhaps this was because they were of the same decent as the Spartans (Dorian), or the fact that numbers of Perioeci, combined with the Helots, created a much large and stronger discontented inferior group, impossible to contend with. Bury and Meiggs state that it was the 'sole aim of the state' was to 'create invincible warriors' to control helots. But there is too much conjecture as to whether Lycurgus even existed. The syssition, was according to Xenophon, 'the most effective check on disobedience'. The fact that no real united rebellion of Perioeci was recorded suggests that they remained content with their position in society. Their strict educational system [agoge], it can be claimed, was therefore based on producing such a society.
Common topics in this essay:
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Helots Ephor,
Spartiates Sparta,
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Dorian Perioeci,
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Acceptance Essays
