What was the importance of the Mess System in Spartan society?
- Promoted equality among citizens
- Compulsory dining for all members
- Wealth had no influence in the mess
According to Plutarch, dining at the mess was compulsory, and the rich man had to dine beside the poor man.
How was voting conducted in the Spartan mess system?
- Current members cast votes via bread
- A crushed piece of bread rejected the candidate
This voting method showed elitism in the messes, as described by Plutarch in Life of Lykourgos 12.
What happened to Agis when he returned from campaign regarding the mess?
- Refused food from the mess
- Did not make the sacrifice
- Fined for not participating
This incident is noted in Plutarch’s Life of Lykourgos 12.
What type of humor was taught in Spartan education?
Laconic humour
This form of humor was part of the educational system in Sparta.
What was the purpose of mingling age groups in Spartan education?
Younger citizens learn from experienced elders
This practice is mentioned by Xenophon in Lac. Pol 5.
What does Oliganthropia refer to in Spartan society?
Dwindling population of Spartan citizens likely due to contributions to the mess as a necessity for citizenship
Aristotle states that anyone who cannot pay this tax cannot belong to the society, as noted in Politics, Book 2.
