Athens vs. Sparta

Very militaristic in every aspect of society.

• Athens

• Sparta

No democracy

• Athens

• Sparta

Citizens participated directly in decision-making

• Athens

• Sparta

Did not value things such as the arts, literature, or intellectual pursuits.

• Athens

• Sparta

First democracy

• Athens

• Sparta

All forms of individual expression were discouraged

• Athens

• Sparta

Valued education - wealthy boys trained to be good citizens

• Athens

• Sparta

Valued duty strength and discipline over freedom, individuality, and learning.

• Athens

• Sparta

Girls were trained for the military too and had many rights.

• Athens

• Sparta

Service to the state was above all else, even above the family

• Athens

• Sparta