Society, Art, Architecture and Religion in Greek City-states
Athens and Sparta, two prominent city-states of ancient Greece, exhibited significant social differences in various aspects. These contrasts can be observed in their treatment of slaves and helots, education systems, and the position of women.
Slavery was a major component of the social system in Athens. Slaves worked as domestic help, laborers, and even tutors. They were typically taken as prisoners of war or purchased through trade. Slaves had some limited legal rights even though they were viewed as property (Kelly, 2022). They might someday be able to purchase their freedom and gain citizenship. However, how slaves were generally treated in Athens varied and was determined by their masters. While some slaves lived in comparatively comfortable circumstances, others received harsher treatment.
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Helots farmed the soil for Spartan citizens as agricultural serfs. They belonged to the state and were not privately owned by Spartans. Helots were strictly controlled and exploited despite having no legal protections (Kelly, 2022). Helots were subjugated, and since the Spartan military feared them rising, Spartan society was harshly suppressed.
Athens and Sparta both had quite different educational systems. Athens appreciated intellectual endeavors and paid much attention to the arts and education. Boys received a well-rounded education that covered music, physical education, reading, writing, and math (Mintz, 2018). Sparta, in contrast, placed a high priority on military discipline and training. Boys at Sparta received a strict upbringing that prioritized strength, stamina, and fighting prowess to produce seasoned warriors committed to the