Sparta/ Ancient Greece

Social Studies

• The ninth-grade child has learned about the political structure of Sparta, including their unique system of government with two kings and a council of elders.
• They have also learned about the role of the military in Spartan society, and how it shaped their way of life.
• The child has gained an understanding of the importance of discipline and physical fitness in Spartan culture.
• Furthermore, they have learned about the differences between Athens and Sparta, and how these two city-states contributed to the overall development of Ancient Greece.

For continued development, the child can explore the art and architecture of Ancient Greece, focusing on the differences between the Spartan and Athenian styles. They can also delve deeper into the political systems of other Greek city-states and compare them to Sparta. Additionally, the child can research the role of women in Spartan society and analyze how it differed from other ancient civilizations.

Book Recommendations

• The Spartan Way: What It Takes to Forge Elite Warriors by Elizabeth Wayland Barber: This book explores the training and lifestyle of Spartan warriors, providing insights into their military prowess and the values that shaped their society.
• The Rise and Fall of Athens: Nine Greek Lives by Plutarch: Plutarch's collection of biographies offers a comprehensive view of Ancient Greece, including the contrasting stories of notable figures from both Sparta and Athens.
• The Ancient City: A Study on the Religion, Laws, and Institutions of Greece and Rome by Numa Denis Fustel de Coulanges: While not solely focused on Sparta, this book provides a broader understanding of the social and political structures of Ancient Greece, which can be applied to the study of Sparta.