Book 6

6.51 Demaratus was back in Sparta attacking Cleomenes. The two kings are related, but Demaratus' house is of slightly inferior ancestry.

Posted on 08-08-17 | Permalink

6.52 The Spartans say that the dual kingship started with the twin sons of their king Aristodemus, both of whom ruled after his death.

Posted on 08-09-17 | Permalink

6.53 Other Greeks list the Dorian kings going back to Perseus, son of Danaƫ, showing that they were Greeks. But Danaƫ was actually Egyptian.

Posted on 08-10-17 | Permalink

6.54 The Persians say that Perseus was an Assyrian who became Greek.

Posted on 08-11-17 | Permalink

6.55 Enough of that. Others have told how these men became masters of the Dorians. I'll write about things no one else has mentioned.

Posted on 08-12-17 | Permalink

6.56 Sparta's kings have various perks, incl. being able to wage war against anyone they want. Plus they get a bodyguard when on campaign.

Posted on 08-13-17 | Permalink

6.57 During peace time they get extra food and front row seats at athletic events, and they sit as members of the Spartan Gerousia [senate].

Posted on 08-14-17 | Permalink

6.58 When a Spartan king dies the news is carried around Laconia. Various people have to go to the funeral, where they beat their foreheads.

Posted on 08-15-17 | Permalink

6.59 After a king dies, the incoming king forgives Spartiates any debts they owe to the king or state. In this they are like the Persians.

Posted on 08-16-17 | Permalink

6.60 The Spartans are like the Egyptians in that heralds, flute-players, and cooks inherit their trades from their fathers.

Posted on 08-17-17 | Permalink





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