Spartan society revolved around training for war.

History · Middle School · Thu Feb 04 2021

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Spartan society, originating from the city-state of Sparta in ancient Greece, was indeed heavily centered around military training and preparation for war. From a young age, Spartan boys were raised to be soldiers. The social system was geared towards creating and maintaining a strong and efficient military state. Here are the key aspects of how Spartan society focused on war training:

1. The Agoge: At the age of seven, Spartan boys were enrolled in a state-sponsored education and training program known as the Agoge. This system was designed to instill discipline, endurance, and combat skills. It was a rigorous regime that focused on physical training, survival skills, and martial training.

2. The Syssitia: Spartans lived and ate together in communal mess halls known as Syssitia. This fostered a sense of camaraderie and unity, important traits for soldiers who would fight side by side on the battlefield.

3. Military Service: Spartan men were expected to serve in the military until the age of 60. They were always prepared for war, and their society placed great value on martial prowess and a warrior's ethos.

4. Social Structure: The Spartan social structure supported their military focus. The Spartiates, or full citizens, were at the top of the hierarchy and dedicated their lives to being professional soldiers. The Perioikoi were free non-citizens who engaged in commerce and industry, and the Helots were state-owned serfs who performed the agricultural labor, freeing up the Spartiates to focus exclusively on military matters.

5. Spartan Women: Women in Sparta were also part of this system, as they were raised to be strong and fit to bear healthy children who could become future warriors. They managed the household and estate while men were serving in the military.

6. Egalitarianism Among Soldiers: Spartans were famous for their lack of luxury and lived austere lives, avoiding the accumulation of wealth that was seen in other Greek city-states. This created a form of military egalitarianism among the Spartiates.

7. Ethos and State Policy: Lastly, the entire ethos of Spartan society was oriented towards war. The state policy was built on the ideals of loyalty, honor, and excellence in combat. All aspects of Spartan life were regulated to ensure that the society remained focused on their primary objective: maintaining a powerful and ready military force.