Question

What differences and similarities do you see between the spartan and athenians governments?

Answer 1

Similarity

1. Governance
2. Military strength
3. Social Gatherings

Difference

1. Lifestyle
2. Political ideology
3. Feminism

Explanation:

Athens and Sparta were similar in the following respect

1. Governance- Both of these modern states had a democratic assembly to govern. While Sparta was ruled by two kings, Athens was ruled by Archons elected annually.
2. Military strengths- Both the states were upholding a formidable bundle of military strength. While Sparta excelled in the land-based army, Athenians were known for their military might.
3. Social gatherings- Both states encouraged social gatherings and admitted only men in such gatherings.

Athens and Sparta held striking dissimilarities too. Some of them are-

• Lifestyle- While Athens had a creative lifestyle. This included good education, pursuing arts, humanities or even sciences. People had the option to serve in the army while girls were involved in other pleasure pursuits. While Sparta lifestyle was utterly simple. The prime focus was on obedience and war pursuits. Ongoing slavery freed the young lads from household chores and got them involved in war pursuits. Young boys were taught to be warriors and warriors were eulogised.

• Political ideology- While Sparta desired to support neighbouring Greek states during the times of need, Athenian were desirous of an increased stake in government in the neighbouring states. This eventually led to the war among all Greek states. However, after winning the war, Sparta allowed the liveliness of Athens to remain in the form of its culture, literature and other soft power.

• Feminism- Spartan women were prohibited from wearing from any cosmetics, makeup, jewellery. They were judged more on their physical build than on their innate beauty. While Athenian women were famous for their beauty and cosmetics. Makeup was part of an Athenian feminine lifestyle. Physical training was not commonly practised by women.