Politics > Great Rhetra

Great Rhetra

The Great Rhetra was a foundational document or set of principles attributed to the legendary lawgiver Lycurgus that formed the basis of the Spartan constitution and governance. It is considered one of the key elements that defined the political, social, and military systems of ancient Sparta. Here is a detailed exploration of the Great Rhetra:

Definition and Significance

Great Rhetra: The term "rhetra" means "agreement" or "proclamation" in Greek. The Great Rhetra is believed to be a set of laws or a constitutional framework given by Lycurgus to Sparta, which established the city-state's political and social structure.
Lycurgus: Lycurgus is a semi-legendary figure often credited with creating many of Sparta's institutions and reforms. The exact historical accuracy of his existence and the Great Rhetra is debated, but they hold a significant place in Spartan tradition and ideology.

Content and Principles

The exact content of the Great Rhetra is not fully known, as it was transmitted orally and later written down by historians like Plutarch. However, several key principles are attributed to it:

Political Structure: The Great Rhetra outlined the political organization of Sparta, including the roles of the kings, the Gerousia (council of elders), and the Apella (assembly of citizens).
- Dual Kingship: Sparta had two hereditary kings from two separate royal families, the Agiads and the Eurypontids. The kings had religious, judicial, and military roles.
- Gerousia: The council of elders, composed of 28 members over the age of 60 and the two kings, was responsible for proposing laws and policies.
- Apella: The assembly of Spartan male citizens had the power to approve or reject proposals from the Gerousia. Decisions were made by acclamation, not by debate.
Eunomia (Good Order): The Great Rhetra emphasized the importance of eunomia, which means "good order" or "lawful governance." This principle aimed to maintain stability, discipline, and cohesion within Spartan society.
Militaristic Society: The Rhetra reinforced Sparta's focus on military excellence and collective responsibility. It mandated rigorous training and communal living to produce disciplined and effective warriors.
Equality and Simplicity: It promoted the ideals of equality among Spartan citizens (Spartiates) and a lifestyle characterized by simplicity and austerity. This included the redistribution of land and the prohibition of luxurious goods and practices.
Checks and Balances: The political structure established by the Rhetra created a system of checks and balances between the kings, the Gerousia, and the Apella, ensuring that no single entity had absolute power.

Historical Context and Impact

Traditional Attribution: According to tradition, Lycurgus received the Great Rhetra from the Oracle of Delphi, giving it a divine sanction. This helped legitimize the laws and reforms in the eyes of the Spartans.
Plutarch's Account: The primary source of information about the Great Rhetra comes from Plutarch's "Life of Lycurgus," written centuries after the supposed time of Lycurgus. Plutarch describes how Lycurgus traveled to Delphi, received the Rhetra, and brought it back to Sparta to implement his reforms.

Impact on Spartan Society

Military Dominance: The Rhetra's emphasis on military training and communal living created one of the most formidable military states in ancient Greece. Spartan warriors were renowned for their discipline, endurance, and combat skills.
Social Cohesion: By promoting equality among Spartiates and reducing wealth disparities, the Rhetra helped maintain social cohesion and unity within the citizen body.
Rigid Social Structure: The Rhetra contributed to the rigid and hierarchical social structure of Sparta, dividing society into Spartiates (full citizens), Perioikoi (free non-citizens), and Helots (state-owned serfs).

Decline and Legacy

Hellenistic Period: As external pressures and internal changes affected Sparta, some aspects of the Rhetra were modified or abandoned. The rise of Macedonian and later Roman influence further diminished the traditional Spartan system.
Historical Influence: The Great Rhetra and the Spartan system it established have been subjects of fascination and study throughout history. They influenced later political thinkers and have been used as examples of both idealized governance and cautionary tales about militaristic societies.

In summary, the Great Rhetra was a foundational set of principles attributed to Lycurgus that established the political and social framework of ancient Sparta. It emphasized military excellence, social equality, and disciplined governance, shaping Sparta into one of the most distinctive and influential city-states of ancient Greece.

Sources

Plutarch (1880). "Lycurgus". In Clough, Arthur Hugh. Plutarch's Lives of Illustrious Men. Translated by Dryden, John. Boston: Little, Brown. pp. 28–43.