Essay Question:

How did education in Athens and Sparta reflect their different societies and values?

Use this plan to structure your essay, including an introduction, main points with evidence, a counter-argument, and a conclusion.

Describe the nature of Athenian education and its purpose:

In Athens, boys received formal education that included reading, writing, music, and philosophy. Education aimed to prepare them for active participation in civic life and democratic decision-making. Provenance: Historical records from Xenophon and Plutarch.

Describe the nature of Spartan education and its societal role:

Spartan boys began military training at age seven, living in barracks and learning survival skills, obedience, and combat. The system aimed to produce disciplined warriors loyal to Sparta. Provenance: Accounts from Plutarch and Xenophon.

Discuss any similarities or overlaps in education between Athens and Sparta:

Although different, both societies used education to prepare their youth for societal roles and emphasized discipline to some extent. Provenance: Comparative studies by historians.