Compare and contrast the roles of Spartiate men and women in the Spartan society.

Sparta was a Greek state renowned for its individuality amongst the rest of Greece from the sixth century BC. The majority of Greece was cultured in their thinking and the arts, yet very conservative concerning the roles of women. Sparta, however, involved women much more in their society. Importance was placed on the physical fitness and the equality between the Spartiates – therefore, including women promoted the Spartan ideals. Although Spartan men held complete power over the state, women shared similar roles in day to day life.
Both men and women of Sparta were completely loyal and proud of their state. Raised in a militaristic environment, their interests lay in the strength of Sparta and its people. They believed their people were direct descendants of the half-god Heracles, and strived to keep their blood of pure Spartan heritage. Endurance and strength were two very important values to the Spartiates, and every element of their lifestyle reflected this. The purpose of ...