斯巴达宪法和雅典宪法的不同(英文)

The differences between The Spartan Constitution and The

Athenian Constitution

When talking about constitution, we shouldn’t neglect these two constitutions, The Spartan Constitution and The Athenian Constitution.Although they play significant roles in our world, there are many distinct differences.

To begin with, Sparta is the oligarchical Lycurgus’ reform, with roots that can be traced on The Spartan Constitution. Compared with Sparta, Athens is often called the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of democratic politics in the west. The characteristic of The Athenian Constitution are：“Sovereign power lies with people” and “The government is ruled by turns”.

Then, the main bodies of governance among Sparta and Athens are dramatically different. The Sparta is Dual Kingship. In other words, the state is ruled by two hereditary kings. The duties of the kings are primarily religious, judicial, and militaristic. Two kings and twenty eight presbyters form the Senate. But the democratic body of Athens isEcclesia, known as Constitution Assembly, which is the chief of executive branch. The Council of Five Hundred is the accessory body of Ecclesia. Members of Council of Five Hundred are elected by lot, fifty of each tribe, serving two-year terms.

Besides,Sparta has five ephors, who chosen by popular election from the

whole body of citizens. After the ephorsare introduced, they, together with the two kings, are the executive branch of the state. Ephors themselves have more power than anyone in Sparta, although the fact that they only stay in power for a single year reducetheir ability to conflict with already established powers in the state. Since reelection is not possible, an ephorwho abuses his power, or confront an established power center, will have to suffer retaliation. Although the five ephorsare the only officials with regular legitimization by popular vote, in practice they are often the most conservative force in Spartan politics. In some degree, this is an access to spy on people; On the contrary, The Athenian Constitution givesAthenians relative freedom, the regulatory body is the Jury Court and citizens, but they don’t means Athenians are watched out.

Furthermore, t he difference with Athensis that Sparta had a special policy maker, the Gerousia (presbyters), a council consisting of 28 elders over the age of 60, elected for life and usually part of the royal households, and the two kings. High state policy decisions are discussed by this council who could then propose action alternatives to the Damos.The collective body of Spartan citizenry would select one of the alternatives by voting. Unlike most Greek poleis, the Spartan citizen assembly could neither set the agenda of issues to be decided, nor debate them, merely vote on the alternatives presented to them. Neither could foreign embassies or emissaries address the assembly; they have to

present their case to the Gerousia, which would then consult with the Ephors. Sparta consideres all discourse from outside as a potential threat and all other states as past, present, or future enemies, to be treated with caution in the very least, even when bound with alliance treaties.

Finally, the way of punishment is different. The Athenians use Ostracism to exile guiltycitizens, and in Sparta, offenders are publicly flogged or killed.

In brief, The Spartan Constitution sets a network to keep a close watch on Spartans. However, The Athenian Constitution gives Athenians freedom and equality. They have different executive bodies, judicial branch, legislative branch and others aspects.