What Are The Similarities Between Spartan And Athenian Culture

A Comparison of Greek and Spartan Culture

The Mediterranean Sea brought together parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia and facilitated the creation of a diverse range of civilizations with unique cultures. In Europe, one of the most prominent cultures, apart from the Romans, was the Greeks. Greek culture differed greatly from city to city. For example, the Greek cities of Athens and Sparta were vastly different although they were both considered Greek. This was due to the fact that the forms of government adopted by the Athenians and the Spartans differed based on the culture that prevailed throughout the civilization.

Before examining Greek cultures, it is prudent to understand the topography of the civilizations. Greece is located on a mountainous

The Athenian culture was characterized by an emphasis “on human beings reaching their full potential and the enrichment of personal life” (p8). This principle established what was known to Athenians as the good citizen. Rather than focusing on the ancient principle of arete or courage in the midst of battle, the Athenians found that “a concern for the good of the community…” was more important (p7). The Athenians also emphasized the Greek principle of the Polis or the community. As a result of the cultural focus on community, Athens adopted a democratic form of government. In Athens, every issue was voted on by the people based on majority rule, known as a direct democracy. Votes took place at the Athenian Assembly known as “the center of Athenian democracy” where all citizens could voice their opinions (p7). While all “citizens” could participate in politics not every resident of Athens could place a vote. Women, slaves, and foreigners were not granted citizenship and therefore could not vote. This meant that over fifty percent of Athens' total population was unable to participate in politics (The Greeks 2013 p7). With that said, Athenian democracy focused on giving its citizens political power by removing or limiting the influence of monarchs and influential families. With the Greek concept of the Polis in mind, an examination of Spartan culture will portray an entirely different