Male Citizens example essay topic

Ancient Greek Civilization has had one of the most lasting and profound effects on all society and cultural developments. Ancient Greek Societies centered around the development and prosperity of their city-states; two set the stage, making indelible impressions: Sparta and Athens. Mountains and bodies of water kept the cities separated and that kept them from uniting into one country. Instead of one ruler for all of the city-states together, the Greeks preferred having their own government. The democratic government of Athens was the beginning of democracy in Western civilization; citizens were given freedom of speech and a voice in making laws. The Assembly, which made laws, included all adult male citizens, meet once a week to discuss and debate such matters as spending money, the need for new laws, declaring war, and making peace.

The male citizens took turns being government officials. The officials were responsible for organizing the city's defenses, keeping up the food supply, and maintaining public buildings. Male citizens also served on juries during court trials. The citizens enjoyed freedom of speech, including the right to criticize their leaders. Women, slaves, and foreigners did not have as many rights given to male citizens. Athenians were very much interested in art, literature, science, mathematics, and philosophy.

The Athenians were skilled architects who erected beautiful temples and public buildings. The Greeks enjoyed stories, poems, plays, and tales of historical events. Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle are the world's first philosophers. Because of there philosophical ideas they influenced people to change their way of thinking on many subjects. Art literature, mathematics and philosophy did not appeal to the Spartans. They were mainly interested in a military life which prepared boys and men for self defense and war.

The Spartan citizens had to be ready to defend themselves against a revolt by the helots. The helots had been taken prisoner during wars and forced into slavery. Once a year, the Spartans declared war on the helots thereby giving them an excuse to kill suspected trouble makers. Instead of seven year old boys learning to read and write they spent there time running, jumping, wrestling, and using a weapon. At age of twenty, they became cadets who policed the country and kept the helots under strict control. At age thirty a man was given the rights of a citizen including the right to hold office, attend meetings, and get married.

The women of Sparta lived in a more free life than women elsewhere. The women had to care for the home; many found time to participate in sports. Women were also allowed to own businesses and property.