“To face the blood and the slaughter” Spartan Society and Values according to Tyrtaeus and Xenophon

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“To face the blood and the slaughter” Spartan Society and Values according to Tyrtaeus and Xenophon

“No man ever proves himself a good man in war unless he can endure to face the blood and the slaughter, go against the enemy and fight with his hands.” The preceding was quoted from “The Spartan creed” by the poet Tyrtaeus. There are two authors in this primary resource reading which include Tyrtaeus as well as Xenophon, whom authored “The laws and customs of the Spartans”. These two works give great detail to the Spartan society. As history has presented it, Sparta was a smaller polis and yet was one of the most, if not most, influential societies in history. What we know of this culture comes to us from excavation of its heritage as well as literary works such as these. But are these “eyes” into history factual and creditable enough to base our own interpretations of such a masterful race? These writings are great resources for Spartan’s war enhanced values and societal customs, but lack in evidence of governmental affairs and religion. This lacking may have been due to both writer’s motives for their work.

Tyrtaeus poetry was designed to inspire the warriors as they went to fight for their beloved country. This work was a testament to the glory that awaited all either in life or death when they fought valiantly through the battles. He could be compared to the modern day motivational speaker. The goal was to get the guys rallied up and ready to defend their heritage. Based on the text, there is an understanding that ancient Sparta valued the heroic qualities of war. To be killed in battle was an honor. “His shining glory is never forgotten” claimed Tyrtaeus. To come home valiantly meant that all would behol...

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...ting places emphasis on what constitutes a hero in Sparta and how they are treated; while Xenophon’s writing explains how to make a Spartan soldier.

To look at this epistemologically, there is an understanding that almost every aspect involved in this culture was derived for the good of the polis. This seemed to be a very proud and arrogant people. A city with no walls, and in almost certainty, only natural born were allowed to earn citizenship. To even be called a Spartan meant years of fighting, service and status. Tyrtaeus states this argument best in the last line of his work. “Thus a man should endeavor to reach this high place of courage with all his heart, and, so trying, never be backward in war.” These writings are great resources for Spartan’s war enhanced values and societal customs, but lack in evidence of governmental affairs and religion.

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