Lycurgus and the Spartan Constitution: What Happened
According to Greek tradition, the lawgiver Lycurgus gave Sparta the laws and way of life that made it unique in the Greek world. Ancient writers placed him anywhere from the 9th to the 8th century BC, and many modern historians doubt he existed at all, seeing him as a legendary figure credited with reforms that developed over time. Whatever their origin, the institutions linked to his name defined Sparta. Its government combined two hereditary kings, a council of elders called the gerousia, an assembly of citizens, and five annually elected officials called ephors. Spartan citizens were equals who were forbidden from trade and luxury. Boys were taken from their families at age seven and trained in a harsh state education system called the agoge. Men ate together in shared mess halls, lived as full-time soldiers, and relied on the labor of helots. The result was the most feared army in Greece and a society admired and puzzled over by other Greeks. Lycurgus's laws were said to be unwritten, and Spartans followed them for centuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Lycurgus?
Lycurgus was the legendary lawgiver of Sparta, credited with creating its laws and way of life. Ancient writers placed him in the 9th or 8th century BC, and many historians doubt he existed.
How was Sparta governed?
Sparta had two hereditary kings, a council of elders called the gerousia, an assembly of citizens and five elected officials called ephors, who held great power.
What was the agoge?
The agoge was Sparta's harsh state education system. Boys left their families at age seven to train in discipline, endurance and fighting, preparing them to become soldiers.
Why was Sparta's army so strong?
Spartan citizens were full-time soldiers, forbidden from trade and supported by helot labor. Their constant training and discipline made the Spartan army the most feared in Greece.
Were the laws of Lycurgus written down?
According to tradition, the laws of Lycurgus were unwritten and passed on through custom and education. Spartans followed them for centuries and took pride in their simplicity.
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