A day in the life of an ancient Athenian - Robert Garland
TED-Ed・1 minute read
The Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta continues in its fourth year, with Athens relying on its naval power. Amidst a recent plague, families like Archias and Dexileia navigate life in Athens, where democratic processes are evident in the decision-making regarding the fate of the Mytileneans.
Insights
- The Peloponnesian War in 427 BCE between Athens and Sparta highlights the stark contrast between Athenian reliance on maritime power and Spartan dominance on land, shaping the strategies and outcomes of the conflict.
- The democratic process in ancient Athens is exemplified through the Ekklêsia assembly's decision-making regarding the fate of the people of Mytilene, demonstrating the importance of debate, dissent, and second chances in governance during times of crisis.
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Recent questions
What was the Peloponnesian War?
Conflict between Athens and Sparta in 427 BCE.
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Summary
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Athens' Democratic Process in Peloponnesian War
- The Peloponnesian War in 427 BCE between Athens and Sparta is in its fourth year, with Athens relying on its maritime empire due to Spartan superiority on land. A recent plague has devastated Athens, but life continues for families like Archias and Dexileia, who own slaves and are grateful for their surviving children.
- Archias participates in the Ekklêsia assembly meeting at dawn in Athens, where citizens debate the fate of the people of Mytilene, recently subdued after a revolt. Initially voting for mass execution, a second meeting is called due to dissent, resulting in a resolution to only execute the revolt leaders.
- Despite a ship already dispatched to carry out the initial resolution, a new ship is sent to countermand the order after the second meeting narrowly passes a resolution to spare most of the Mytileneans, showcasing a democratic process in action in ancient Athens.
