Final answer:
Athens is renowned for its cultural contributions and democratic principles, contrasting with Sparta's militaristic and oligarchic structure. Athenian society valued art, philosophy, and public participation in governance, while Sparta emphasized military discipline and safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
Athenian vs. Spartan Lifestyle and Values
Athens and Sparta were two dominant Greek city-states, each with a distinct set of values and ways of life. While Sparta was known for its military prowess and strict social structure, Athens is celebrated for its cultural achievements and the establishment of democracy. Athenians valued art, music, and drama, boasting a lifestyle that was open to ideas, trade, and intellectual pursuits. Notably, Athens was the birthplace of many public works, theaters, temples, and was a hub for commerce and festivals. Its population was known for their intellectual curiosity, as exemplified by the philosopher Socrates, who lived and died in Athens. In contrast, Sparta valued safety and had a totalitarian government where an oligarchic state controlled the lives of its citizens with a strict disciplinary code.
Athens Political Development
Over the course of the Archaic period, Athens developed a unique system of governance. Unlike the oligarchy of Sparta, Athens moved towards a form of limited democracy, where all adult male citizens had a say in the government, albeit within the constraints of a system that only recognized certain inhabitants as citizens. This political evolution emerged due to internal conflicts regarding wealth distribution, leading to a series of reforms that gradually extended political participation beyond the aristocracy to include prosperous farmers and merchants.
Athenian Military and Cultural Achievements
Throughout its history, Athens showcased military strength, especially in naval battles. Despite being besieged by Sparta during the Peloponnesian War, the fortified city remained resilient due to its superior navy. The Athenian way of life resonated with Greek culture's focus on government, art, architecture, philosophy, and sport, including participation in the Olympic Games and the commissioning of artworks to beautify the city and honor the gods.