SPARTAN CONSTITUTION Meaning and
Definition
-
Spartan Constitution refers to the political and social framework that governed the city-state of Sparta in ancient Greece. It was notable for its distinctiveness and unique features in comparison to other Greek city-states of the time.
The term "constitution" in this context refers to the set of laws, norms, and institutions that determined the rights, responsibilities, and structure of the Spartan society. The Spartan Constitution was primarily characterized by its focus on militarism, austerity, and the subordination of individual needs and desires to the collective interests of the state.
At the heart of the Spartan Constitution was the concept of Lycurgus' reforms. Legend has it that the Spartan lawmaker Lycurgus was responsible for instituting these reforms, which aimed to create a disciplined, martial society. The constitution emphasized the importance of military prowess and communal living, with individual citizens being expected to subordinate personal interests to the needs of the community.
Spartan society was divided into three classes: Spartiates (full citizens), perioikoi (free inhabitants, but not citizens), and helots (the conquered slave population). The Spartiates held the highest position in society and were required to undergo intense and rigorous military training. The perioikoi, though free, did not possess the full rights of citizenship, and the helots were subjected to servitude.
The Spartan Constitution also incorporated unique governmental institutions. The most famous of these was the concept of dual kingship, where two hereditary kings held the highest positions of authority and acted as military leaders and judges. Additionally, a council of elders, known as the Gerousia, played a crucial role in decision-making and served as an advisory body.
Overall, the Spartan Constitution was a highly regimented and disciplined system that sought to promote the ideals of military
Etymology of SPARTAN CONSTITUTION
The word "Spartan" comes from the name of the ancient Greek city-state of Sparta, which was known for its military strength and disciplined way of life. The Spartan constitution refers to the system of governance and laws in place in Sparta.
The etymology of the word "Spartan" itself can be traced back to the Greek word "Spartoi", which referred to the inhabitants of the city-state. The term "Sparta" is believed to have derived from the Indo-European root "sper", meaning "to sow" or "to scatter", indicating the agricultural origins of the Spartans.
The term "constitution" comes from the Latin word "constitutio", which means "establishment" or "arrangement". It later evolved to have a broader meaning, referring to the fundamental principles and laws upon which a system of governance or organization is based.
