Plutarch’s writings on Sparta provide a glimpse into the educational and social values of Spartan society. Here’s an overview of how Spartan children were taught in relation to the topics you mentioned:
-
Importance of Reading: Spartan education, known as agoge, emphasized practical skills and discipline over literary study. Reading was not prioritized as it was in other Greek city-states, as the Spartans focused more on physical training and the development of martial skills.
-
Treatment of Any Boy or Man Who is Older Than You: Spartan culture emphasized respect for elders. Youth were taught to respect their superiors, which reinforced the hierarchical structure of Spartan society. This respect was paramount, especially within the military context, where experience and age were associated with wisdom and leadership.
-
Working with One’s Hands: The Spartans valued hard work and manual labor, but it was somewhat paradoxical. While they expected a practical understanding of labor, the elite Spartan class (the Spartiates) often relied on the helots (subjugated laborers) for agricultural work. However, physical training, sports, and manual activities were still part of the upbringing of Spartan boys to cultivate strength and endurance.
-
Importance of Money: In Sparta, the value placed on money and material wealth was significantly lower than in other Greek states. The emphasis was on communal living and equality; wealth was often viewed with suspicion, as it could lead to corruption and inequality, which were contrary to Spartan ideals. Thus, Spartan children were not taught to pursue wealth as a measure of success.
-
Travel: Spartan children were generally expected to remain within the confines of their city-state and were not encouraged to travel extensively. Travel outside of Sparta was often restricted, particularly for the Spartiates, as it was believed to expose them to foreign ideas and practices that could undermine their disciplined upbringing.
-
Attending Plays: Spartan society did not place a high value on drama and theater as seen in other Greek cities like Athens. While they participated in religious festivals, the focus was more on athletic events and military displays than on dramatic performances.
-
Music: Music was an integral part of Spartan education, particularly as it related to dance and military training. Spartans believed music could foster unity and discipline among soldiers. Boys were taught to sing and play music, which was also important in various communal and military settings.
Overall, Spartan education and culture were grounded in ideals of discipline, respect for authority, physical prowess, and a communal ethos, with less emphasis on literature, wealth, and individual pursuits that characterized other Greek city-states.