Question

Compare and contrast the education in Athens and Sparta

Answer 1

Sparta was a military driven society in which all boys were sent to military school at the age of 7 away from their parents. These boys were treated severely and were taught how to steal so they had enough to eat. The idea was that if they were able to steal food enough to eat when they were on a military mission they had the skills to survive. If they were caught stealing they were severely punished. They were NOT taught academic subjects other than military strategy and the like. Military service was compulsory and all men were required to serve until at least the age of 30.
Athens was an academic based society. Boys went to school well into their teens and were taught languages, mathematics, reading and writing. They were also taught oration (speaking), politics, and strategy. Military service was not compulsory but was honored.