Mess System Flashcards
(8 cards)
What was the importance of the mess system to equality according to Plutarch?
“there was no use for wealth…when the rich man was compelled to and dine beside the poor man”
Was dining at the mess optional according to Plutarch?
No, dining at the mess was compulsory
This rule emphasized the importance of community and equality.
How were members elected to a mess according to Plutarch?
Voting via bread; a crushed piece resulted in rejection
This method of voting reflected the seriousness of membership and the need for unanimous support.
What happened to Agis when he returned from campaign? [Plut]
The polemarch refused to send his food from the mess, so Agis didn’t make sacrifice and so “they fined him”
What type of humor was taught in the education system?
Laconic humour
This type of humor emphasized brevity and wit, characteristic of Spartan culture.
What was the educational approach of Lycurgus in Sparta? [Xen]
“Lycurgus mingled the age groups in Sparta so that the younger learn from their more experienced elders”
What does oliganthropia refer to in the context of citizenship?
Contributions a necessity
This term indicates that financial contributions were essential for citizenship.
What did Aristotle say about membership and food tax?
“the ancient mark of citizenship for them is that anyone who cannot pay this tax cannot belong”
Had to provide certain goods to stay in the mess system
