Argumentative Essay Sparta Vs Athens

Argumentative Essay Sparta vs. Athens Sparta and Athens were two Greek city-states. Geographically, they are very close to one another, but each had their different views on beliefs, values, life styles, and culture. The Spartans were always preparing themselves for battle and war. They developed “a militaristic society ruled by two kings and an oligarchy, or a small group that exercised political control” (ushistory.org). The Athenians, however, were a city-state that was known for its significant ideas. These ideas led to advancements in the arts, writing, and even philosophies. Although both Sparta and Athens had their ups and downs, most citizens would feel more inclined to belong to the city of Athens. Athens, Greece is one of the most celebrated city-states in all of ancient Greece. It was the center for economics, and political and financial culture. It was the “symbol of freedom, art, and democracy in the conscience of the civilized world” (diffen.com). Athens was named after the goddess of all wisdom, knowledge, and war, Athena. The people of Athens were very smart and intelligent. Their lives revolved around creating, learning, and enhancing beauty in the world around them. As opposed to the Athenians and their wisdom, the Spartans were not open to education. In fact, Anton Powell, author of the book Athens and Sparta said, “…it is often suggested that the Spartans were fools” (Powell, 97). They centered their lives on the military aspect. Spartans lived in harsh conditions without luxuries, to make them stronger fighters. Once a young boy reached the age of seven or eight, he was removed from his family by the state, and placed into military training. The training was often brutal and threatening, since the trainers encouraged the boys to steal, fight, and kill. Sparta’s main goal was to train their young citizens to become hardened warriors so that they could potentially fight life-threatening enemies and slave revolts. The men in training