Episode Description
Imagine a state where no citizen works for a living; where children are kept hungry to encourage them to steal; where the most powerful military force in the known world is reluctant to fight far from the city for fear of a slave revolt at home. Such a place was ancient Sparta. In this episode, host Scott Emmons traces the legendary origins of the Spartan state, the wars that shaped its military tradition, the educational system that trained its citizen soldiers, and the unique “mixed” constitution that drew the admiration of historians and philosophers.
For maps and visuals to supplement this episode, check out Episode 18 at epicgreekhistory.substack.com.
Reading Suggestions
Xenophon, Constitution of the Spartans
Plutarch, Life of Lycurgus, Spartan Customs, and Sayings of Spartan Women
Aristotle, Politics (relevant passages)
Paul Cartledge, Sparta and Laconia
Nigel M. Kennel, Spartans: A New History
Sara B. Pomeroy, Spartan Women