Digital Maps of the Ancient World

Sparta

Welcome to our curated reading list for those eager to explore the enigmatic city-state of Sparta, renowned for its legendary military prowess and unique social institutions!

Delve into the rich tapestry of Spartan history, culture, and society with our selection of insightful works by leading scholars and historians. From the rigorous training of Spartan warriors in the agoge to the complex political dynamics of the Spartan government, our reading list offers a comprehensive exploration of this fascinating civilization. Immerse yourself in the accounts of ancient historians like Herodotus and Xenophon, who provide invaluable insights into Spartan society and customs. Discover the enduring myths and realities surrounding Spartan women, known for their exceptional freedom and influence compared to their counterparts in other Greek city-states. Whether you’re intrigued by Spartan military strategy or fascinated by the Spartan approach to education and citizenship, our reading list provides a diverse array of perspectives to satisfy your curiosity about this iconic city-state. Join us on a journey through the annals of Spartan history and uncover the secrets of one of ancient Greece’s most enigmatic societies.

General

• Cartledge, P., Sparta and Lakonia: a regional history, 1300-362 BC, London, 2002.
• Powell, A., Hodkinson, S. & Christesen, P., (ed.) Sparta: the body politic, Swansea, 2010.
• Whitby, M., Sparta, Edinburgh, 2002.

Further Reading

• Andrewes, A., ‘Spartan Imperialism‘ in Imperialism in the ancient world: Cambridge University research seminar in ancient history, Cambridge, 1978.
• Cartledge, P., Agesilaus and the crisis of Sparta, London, 1986.
• Cawkwell, G., ‘Agesilaus and Sparta’ in The Classical Quarterly 26, 1976, 62-84.
• Finley, M.I., ‘Sparta and Spartan Society’ in Economy and society in ancient Greece, Harmondsworth, 1981.
• Hack, H.M., ‘Thebes and the Spartan Hegemony, 386-382 B.C.’in The American Journal of Philology 99.2, 1987, 210-227.
• Hamilton, C.H., Sparta’s bitter victories: politics and diplomacy in the Corinthian War, Ithaca NY, 1978.
• Hamilton, C.H., Agesilaus and the failure of Spartan hegemony, Ithaca NY, 1991.
• Kelly, D.H., ‘Policy-making in the Spartan assembly’ in Antichthon: journal of the Australian Society for Classical Studies 15, Sydney, 1981, 47-61.
• Lewis, D.M. & Bradeen, D.W., Sparta and Persia: lectures delivered at the University of Cincinnati, Autumn 1976 in memory of Donald W. Bradeen, Leiden, 1977.
• Parke, H.W., ‘The Development of the Second Spartan Empire (405-371 B.C.)’ in The Journal of Hellenic Studies 50, 1930, 37-79.
• Pomeroy, S.B., Spartan women, Oxford, 2002.
• Powell, A., Athens and Sparta: constructing Greek political and social history from 478 BC, London, 1988.
• Seager, R.J., ‘Agesilaus in Asia: propaganda and objectives’ in Liverpool classical monthly 2, Liverpool, 1977, 183-184.
• Westlake, H.D., ‘Spartan Intervention in Asia, 400-397 B.C.’ in Historia: Zeitschrift für Alte Geschichte, 1986, 405-426.