Overview
This lecture describes daily life in Athens during the Peloponnesian War, focusing on a political crisis and the functioning of Athenian democracy.
The Peloponnesian War & Athens' Situation
- The Peloponnesian War (Athens vs. Sparta) is in its fourth year (427 BCE).
- Athens relies on naval power and retreats inside city walls to avoid Spartan armies.
- A recent plague has killed one-third of Athens’ population.
Daily Life in an Athenian Household
- Archias, a prosperous pottery painter, is engaged in the city’s public affairs.
- Dexileia, his wife, cannot participate in politics or own property.
- Their family includes three surviving children and household slaves.
- Slaves perform housework (Thratta) and provide education (Philon, the paidagĂ´gos).
- Religious rituals, like burning incense and pouring libations, are part of daily life.
Athenian Democracy & The Assembly
- Only native-born adult males who completed military training are citizens.
- The EkklĂŞsia (assembly) meets at dawn to decide on civic matters.
- The assembly meets on the Pnyx, a crowded hillside space.
- Heralds purify the meeting area and call for order.
The Mytilenean Debate
- The agenda concerns punishment for Mytilene, a city that revolted against Athens.
- Citizens debate mercy vs. vengeance; a majority first vote for mass execution and enslavement.
- After the meeting, public dissent arises regarding the harshness of the decision.
Change of Decision & Democratic Process
- Dexileia, though excluded from the assembly, voices moral objections at home.
- A second assembly is hurriedly called; the new resolution is to punish only the revolt leaders.
- Two ships are dispatched in quick succession to implement and then overturn the initial order.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Peloponnesian War — a prolonged conflict between Athens and Sparta with their respective allies.
- Ekklêsia — the assembly of Athenian citizens responsible for major decisions.
- Paidagôgos — a slave tutor responsible for a child’s education.
- Pnyx — the hill in Athens where the assembly meets.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review how Athenian democracy operated, especially during crises.
- Reflect on the role of women and slaves in Athenian society.