SPARTAN ARMY Meaning and
Definition
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The Spartan army refers to the military force of ancient Sparta, a Greek city-state renowned for its disciplined and highly efficient warriors. Characterized by their formidable fighting skills and unyielding discipline, Spartan soldiers were part of a state-controlled military system known as the Agoge.
The Spartan army operated from the 6th to the 4th century BC and consisted of professional soldiers, or hoplites, who were rigorously trained from childhood and formed the backbone of Greek warfare during this period. The education and upbringing of Spartan boys was focused on preparing them for military service, with physical training, combat instruction, and strict discipline being central to their development.
The army operated as a phalanx formation, where soldiers lined up side by side, armed with bronze shields, spears, and short swords. Spartan hoplites were recognized for their exceptional physical preparedness, as well as their unwavering loyalty and belief in the collective strength of their comrades. These qualities made the Spartan army nearly invincible on the battlefield and secured their reputation as fearsome warriors.
The Spartan army was known for its rigorous martial lifestyle, communal living, and demanding training regime. This militaristic society ensured that Sparta maintained a powerful and dominant position among other Greek city-states. The Spartan army's indomitable spirit and unwavering discipline have left an enduring legacy in military history, influencing subsequent military tactics and the ideal of the citizen-soldier.
Etymology of SPARTAN ARMY
The term "Spartan army" refers to the military forces of the ancient Greek city-state of Sparta. The word "Spartan" is derived from Sparta, which was the name of the city-state itself. The term "Sparta" comes from the Greek word "Spartē" (Σπάρτη in Greek), which is believed to have originated from the root word "sparasso" (σπαράσσω), meaning "to sow" or "to scatter". This is because Sparta was located in a region known for its fertile soil, and the name possibly reflects its agricultural origins. However, it is important to note that the etymology of ancient words can be complex, and there may be alternative theories and interpretations related to the origin of the name "Sparta".
