An ostracon is an ancient piece of pottery, typically a shard or fragment, used as a writing surface in various cultures across the world. The term originates from the Greek word "ostrakon," which means "shell" or "tile."
In ancient times, ostracons were often utilized as a means of voting or making important decisions in democratic societies. Citizens would inscribe the name of a person believed to pose a threat to the community or city-state onto an ostracon. These "ostracized" individuals would then be banished from the city for a specified period, usually ten years. This process was known as "ostracism."
Ostracons were also used for other purposes, such as economic transactions, record-keeping, and personal correspondence. They were typically made from materials abundant in the local area, such as pottery, limestone, or broken tiles, making them easily accessible and affordable.
Due to the durability of the pottery material, many ostracons have survived through the ages, providing valuable insights into ancient cultures, languages, and historical events. Archaeologists and historians have unearthed ostracons from various civilizations, including ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. These fragments often contain inscriptions, drawings, or texts that offer glimpses into the daily lives, customs, and thoughts of the people who used them.
In modern times, the study of ostracons has become an essential field within archaeology, anthropology, and historical research, shedding light on the diverse range of human experiences and civilizations of the past.
