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Document Details : Title: Did the Thirty Really Want to Imitate Sparta? Author(s): LENFANT, Dominique Journal: Ancient Society Volume: 55 Date: 2025 Pages: 1-29 DOI: 10.2143/AS.55.0.3295044 Abstract : Over the past few decades, the idea that the Thirty wanted to imitate the Spartan constitution has become a mainstream opinion. However, a closer look at the sources and an analysis of the dozen alleged borrowings from the Spartan constitution inspires scepticism. The only indisputably borrowed element (the number and name of the ephors) remains superficial, is limited to a small circle, and predates the seizure of power. Another is purely hypothetical (the number of the Thirty as inspired by the Gerousia). Assertions about other borrowed elements are based on uncertain or erroneous data, or abusive assimilations. Some similarities are simply the result of commonplace features or pertain to oligarchic practices that were widespread outside of Athens and Sparta. The references of the Thirty to Sparta remained purely verbal and general (mainly exhortations to discipline). |
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