In ancient Greece, the concept of childhood as we know it today did not exist. Children were not considered to be separate from adults, but rather as miniature versions of them. The idea of a distinct stage of life for children did not emerge until the 5th century BC.
Age of majority in Ancient Greece
The age at which children were considered to be adults in ancient Greece varied depending on the city-state and time period. In Athens, boys were considered to be adults at the age of 18, while girls were considered adults when they got married, usually between the ages of 12 and 15.
In Sparta, boys were considered to be adults at the age of 20 and were expected to marry soon after. Spartans placed a high value on physical strength and military prowess, so young men underwent rigorous training in preparation for their roles as soldiers.
Coming-of-age rituals
In many ancient Greek city-states, there were coming-of-age rituals that marked a child’s transition into adulthood. In Athens, boys participated in the festival of Anthesteria when they turned 18. During this festival, they would drink wine and participate in various competitions and games.
Girls also had their own coming-of-age rituals. In Athens, girls participated in the festival of Brauronia when they reached puberty (around the age of 12). During this festival, they would dress up in bear skins and perform various dances and rituals.
- Athenian citizenship
Being considered an adult was important because it meant that a person could participate fully in society. For example, only adult males could become citizens in Athens. Citizenship allowed a person to participate in the democratic process by voting on laws and serving on juries.
The role of education
Education was an important part of growing up in ancient Greece. Boys from wealthy families received a formal education, which included subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, and music. They also learned physical skills such as wrestling and horseback riding.
Girls were not typically educated in the same way as boys. Instead, they were taught domestic skills such as weaving, cooking, and cleaning. However, some girls from wealthy families did receive a formal education.
The influence of philosophy
The Greek philosopher Plato believed that education was important for both boys and girls. He argued that women should have access to the same education as men so that they could become virtuous and contribute to society.
Another philosopher, Aristotle, believed that education should be tailored to each individual’s abilities and interests. He believed that students should be taught practical skills that would prepare them for their roles in society.
In conclusion, children in ancient Greece were not considered separate from adults but rather as miniature versions of them. The age at which a person was considered an adult varied depending on the city-state and time period. Coming-of-age rituals marked a child’s transition into adulthood, and education played an important role in preparing young people for their roles in society.