Tracey 1

Jonathan Tracey
Kimberly Lark
History 134
May 22, 2015
Young Males in Spartan Culture
Adrastos, Greek meaning courageous, is a young male experiencing a lifestyle which no
other surrounding Greek city-states practiced. Living in Sparta, he has his whole life planned
from birth. He is to be raised as a strong warrior. Luckily, he was not sent to live the life of a
slave or killed, which was common practice of the time if the child was considered weak. He is
age 7 and just starting his training.
He is sent to a dormitory and is housed with other boys his age. They endure vigorous
training and harsh discipline daily. Day by day they were beaten by those who were superior to
them and went without food. Some days he would almost pass out from hunger. He was expected
to show no signs of weakness. Sometimes there were marches on rough terrain without any
protection of the feet. Other days he had sleep outside in the wilderness and make his own bed
out of reeds. Preparation for any problems to be faced in combat was key. His physique had to be
strong and well maintained. Along with all the physical training, he also was involved in sporting
and hunting activities. This would further mold him into the model Spartan.
This education program not only prepared him physically, but also mentally. They were
taught a sense of duty and loyalty. The main purpose of their existence was for the protection of
Sparta. Any signs of surrender is a disgrace. They also trained the mind scholastically.

Tracey 2

Although he was not a slave, the lifestyle was very similar. Rationed food, living in rough
environments, and being under the control of another group is a few examples. A young Spartan
child is subjected to this and will be a soldier for life. Adrastos will not even be allowed to live
with his future family until age 30. This is how the Spartans lived and he is not living this alone.