A Cultural History of Democracy in Antiquity

This volume explores democracy as a cultural phenomenon in ancient societies, examining the experiences of those living in democratic communities and comparing ancient practices to modern democracy. The origins of democracy can be traced back to early civilizations, and it was prevalent in cities and communities across the Mediterranean world and Asia. The book covers ten different themes, including sovereignty, liberty, the "common good," economic and social democracy, religion, citizenship, gender, ethnicity, race, and nationalism, as well as democratic crises, revolutions, and civil resistance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive volume explores democracy as a multifaceted cultural phenomenon that manifested itself in diverse ways across a vast expanse of ancient societies throughout Antiquity. It delves into the lived experiences of individuals within democratic communities and examines the distinct characteristics of ancient democratic practices compared to our contemporary understanding.

The roots of democracy can be traced back to the earliest civilizations, emerging in the early urban societies of the Middle East. These early democratic tendencies were evident in cities and communities across the Mediterranean world and Asia, showcasing the enduring legacy of this political system.

In classical Athens, a remarkable example of a fully-fledged democratic culture, male citizens enjoyed full participation in the political life of the city. This volume delves into the intricate details of Athens' democratic system, shedding light on the principles, institutions, and cultural values that shaped its political landscape.

While democracy may have taken different forms in different times and places, it often found expression in the participatory structures of local social institutions. Each chapter of this volume takes a distinct theme as its focus, offering a comprehensive examination of various aspects of democracy in Antiquity. These themes include sovereignty, liberty and the rule of law, the "common good," economic and social democracy, religion and the principles of political obligation, citizenship and gender, ethnicity, race, and nationalism, democratic crises, revolutions, and civil resistance, international relations, and beyond the polis.

By employing ten different approaches to democracy in Antiquity, this volume provides an extensive and synoptic coverage of the subject. It offers valuable insights into the diverse experiences, challenges, and achievements of ancient democratic societies, contributing to our understanding of the complex and evolving nature of democracy throughout history.

Weight: 552g
Dimension: 170 x 244 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350439986