The structure of the Spartan society developed in order to maintain control of the large discontent population of Helots. Although only speculation, this theory is also held by many modern historians. The society of the Spartans developed in order to produce superior warriors whose sole aim was to maintain their way of life through the control of the Helots. The development of a Spartan in order to become an invincible warrior involved their severe education system [agoge] compulsory to all Spartan citizens. Furthermore the Kryptia, syssition, and womens role in firstly developing strong babies were develop to enhance the discipline, austerity and devotion to the state which was critical in controlling the helots.

Initially the annexation of Messene provided Sparta with a great wealth of resources, land and slaves [in addition to original Laconian slaves]. According to Kathryn Welch, this allowed the 'privileged class [Spartiates] in Sparta to become a full time army' that could concentrate on a militaristic lifestyle. Archaeological excavation of the Spartan polis show that a dramatic

This interpretation to the reason why the Spartan society developed the way it did is only speculation. Ancient written sources from Plutarch, cannot be taken as the truth, due partly to his Athenian background [although it seems he tries to be objective], but also the fact that he were using secondary sources to come to his conclusion. Xenophon on the other hand, wrote while the Spartan society reigned supreme in Greece, and although he was Athenian he does have reasons to write to promote Spartan supremacy [exiled from Athens and welcomed by Spartan where he became friendly with the Spartan King Agesilaus.] Aristotle remains seen as being very much biased to Athens, and tended to exaggerate the problems within the Spartan society. In any case, it is impossible to make any definite conclusion to how the Spartan society developed. But from what both Plutarch, Xenophon and Aristotle write, and also conclusions made from archaeological remains at Sparta, it can be suggested that the Society developed in order to produce superior warriors whose sole aim was to maintain their way of life through the control of the Helots

It can be deducted from Xenophon that it was in physical training and athletics that Spartiate women their spent time. The labour of Helot women freed female Spartiates from domestic work. Plutarch explained that the physical education of girls was aimed at producing healthier bodies, so that 'the fruits they conceive might take a firmer root and find better growth'. Bury and Meiggs state that it was the 'sole aim of the state' was to 'create invincible warriors' to control helots. It was therefore in light of controlling Helots that Spartan women were encouraged to start the process of creating these 'invincible warriors' by conceiving stronger babies.

Spartan helots, whether Laconian or Messenian, were forced into their status in society, due to the coercive will of the Spartan state. They were vital to the Spartan society in that they allowed the Spartan to continue furthering their military excellence and in

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Approximate Word count = 1377
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)