This volume introduces the important aspects of the society of Sparta, the dominant power in Southern Greece from the 7th century BC and the great rival of democratic Athens in the 5th and 4th centuries. During this period Sparta evolved a unique social and political system that combined egalitarian structures, military ideals and brutal oppression, and permitted male citizens to focus on the practice of war. The system continues to fascinate scholars: its outlines are clear, but because of the nature of the evidence almost all detailed aspects of Spartan social practices and constitutional affairs are open to debate. This text explores Sparta’s problematic early history, its social and economic organization, Spartan international relations and military achievements, its culture, the role of Spartan women, and Spartan sexual conduct and values.