Athenian Popular Courts Quiz

What was a unique feature of the Athenian popular courts compared to modern courts?

• They had professional judges.

• They were run by ordinary citizens.

• They had a police force.

• They used lawyers for defense.

In Athenian courts, who could bring a public case?

• Only the victim.

• The victim's family.

• Any citizen.

• Only the magistrate.

How were jurors selected in Athenian courts?

• By election.

• Through a complex randomization process.

• Based on wealth and status.

• By appointment from the magistrate.

What was a key democratic feature of the Athenian jury system?

• Jurors were selected based on their education.

• Jurors were required to have legal expertise.

• Jurors were paid a modest wage.

• Jurors were appointed by the government.

What was the main reason for the extensive randomization in jury selection?

• To speed up the trial process.

• To select the most experienced jurors.

• To ensure diversity.

• To prevent bribery.

What was the role of professional speechwriters in Athenian trials?

• They wrote speeches for litigants.

• They served as jurors.

• They provided legal advice.

• They acted as judges.

What happened if a defendant was found guilty in an Athenian court?

• The magistrate decided the penalty.

• The jury proposed a penalty.

• The case was sent to a higher court.

• The plaintiff and defendant proposed penalties, and the jury chose one.

How did the Athenian legal system view the role of the jury?

• As a temporary government body.

• As a ceremonial role.

• As a group of legal experts.

• As a representation of the people of Athens.

What was a potential downside of the Athenian legal system?

• It excluded all citizens from participation.

• It relied too heavily on professional judges.

• It was susceptible to biases and rhetoric.

• It was too rigid and inflexible.

Why did the Athenians prefer amateurism in their legal system?

• To reduce costs.

• To align with democratic values.

• To ensure faster trials.

• To avoid external influence.