Tyrtaeus Flashcards
What is it seen as honourable to do?
In times of war, to die defending your homeland
What is seen as a fate worse than death?
Becoming a beggar (due to being a tresant)
What will happen if you’re a beggar?
- You’ll wander the streets with your family
- Face hatred
- Brings shame upon your family and ruins your reputation
What is it important for young men to do in battle?
Stand together, without running away or panicking
Show strength and determination
What should young men not do in battle?
Abandon older men
Why should young men not abandon older men?
It’s shameful for old men to die before the young
This would cause outrage and disgrace
What is expected to happen to young men in battle?
For them to die
What is believed about young men dying in battle?
It’s seen as impressive and desirable (especially by women)
Seen as beautiful
Why was it seen bad for older men to die in battle?
Spartan culture revered and honoured elders
They believed that young men should be as brave as elders were in their youth
How does this poem relate to victims of war (and how is it different to victims of war in Iliad?)
- Women, children and old men are still victims of war
- However they become victims due to the cowardice of their tresant relatives or warriors
- Whilst in Iliad they become victims due to warriors inability to win wars etc.
How is Fallen warrior written?
In elegiac couplets
