Spartan Society: Structure, Education, and Institutions

Sparta's Rise to Power

Located in the southern Peloponnese region of Greece, Sparta emerged from the union of several towns during Dorian migrations around the 10th century BC. The fertile Eurotas River plain contributed to their prosperity. Spartans eventually dominated Laconia, expanding their control over neighboring Messenia. The conquered Messenians became helots, a subjugated population.

Social Structure

Spartan society was stratified into three main classes:

• Spartiates: The ruling warrior class.
• Perioeci: Inhabitants of surrounding areas who enjoyed some autonomy and served in the army but lacked political rights.
• Helots: The enslaved population who worked the land.

The Spartans addressed population growth by territorial expansion. Their rigid military discipline, essential for maintaining control over the helots, made them a formidable force in ancient Greece but hindered economic progress.

Education in Sparta

Education was paramount in the system attributed to the legendary lawgiver Lycurgus. Boys and girls were educated separately, with an emphasis on physical prowess. Activities included wrestling, discus throwing, and javelin. Children deemed weak or unhealthy were rejected. At age 7, boys entered state-sponsored training to become hoplites (citizen-soldiers). From ages 7 to 12, they learned basic literacy and underwent rigorous physical training. From 12 onwards, the focus shifted to combat skills and survival techniques. They lived in communal barracks, endured harsh conditions, and were encouraged to find their own food. Relationships between older men and younger boys were a distinct feature of Spartan society.

At 16, boys underwent further trials and ceremonies, marking their transition to adolescence. They spent time alone in the wilderness, honing survival skills and hunting helots. At 20, they became full Spartiates, with the primary expectation of procreation.

Spartan Institutions

Sparta's political system comprised several key institutions:

• Diarchy: A dual kingship with hereditary succession.
• Five Ephors: Elected officials who oversaw the kings and other magistrates.
• Council of Elders (Gerousia): Composed of 28 members over age 60, who prepared legislation for the Assembly.
• Assembly (Apella): All Spartiate citizens over 30 could participate, voting on proposals from the Council of Elders.