The culture of ancient Sparta was mainly focused on military power. Their highly efficient and advanced military tactics allowed the Spartans to conquer and dominate the surrounding Greek city-states when confronted in battle. However behind the powerful military appearance, there was actually a rich and diverse culture to be found.
Education was also very important in Spartan society as long as it didn't interfere with military operations or actions. Sparta taught its young children more than just the doings of war. They taught many different subjects including reading, writing, music, philosophy, and the rules and doings of many different Olympic sports. This gave the Spartan children the abilities to become literate and knowledgeable in the great writings and poetry of the time.
There has only been four majorly known Spartan poets and lyricists, and their works were admired throughout the ancient world. Unfortunately it is true that only fragments of their work have survived the centuries and much is ineligible because of natural forces and no proficient means of long-term preservation. People from other city-states in ancient times traveled great distances to witness the musical singing and dance contests of the Spartans at their various festivals, particularly in the Gymnopaedia and the Hyakinthia regions.
Many don't remember or even realize the philosophical and cultural achievements the Spartans reached and its truly unfortunate. The Spartans were a diverse and unique people who although mainly prided themselves in military deeds and accomplishments, were more than meets the eye when it came to cultural achievements.
- The Spartans often practiced many sporting events and thrived at the Olympic games
- Education was important to the Spartans, even if its not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of them.
- Sparta was renowned by neighboring city states for its music and dance.
Education was also very important in Spartan society as long as it didn't interfere with military operations or actions. Sparta taught its young children more than just the doings of war. They taught many different subjects including reading, writing, music, philosophy, and the rules and doings of many different Olympic sports. This gave the Spartan children the abilities to become literate and knowledgeable in the great writings and poetry of the time.
There has only been four majorly known Spartan poets and lyricists, and their works were admired throughout the ancient world. Unfortunately it is true that only fragments of their work have survived the centuries and much is ineligible because of natural forces and no proficient means of long-term preservation. People from other city-states in ancient times traveled great distances to witness the musical singing and dance contests of the Spartans at their various festivals, particularly in the Gymnopaedia and the Hyakinthia regions.
Many don't remember or even realize the philosophical and cultural achievements the Spartans reached and its truly unfortunate. The Spartans were a diverse and unique people who although mainly prided themselves in military deeds and accomplishments, were more than meets the eye when it came to cultural achievements.