Kings, Ephors and the Gerousia Flashcards
How many kings were there?
2
How many members did the Gerousia consist of?
28 Spartans + 2 kings
What was the role of the kings?
In war time, one would lead the army while the other would stay in Sparta.
To consult the ephors and the oracle at Delphi.
To held decide on new laws with the Gerousia.
What were the roles of the Ephors? How long was their term?
Decided when to summon the Gerousia and the Assembly.
Controlled the magistrates, state finances and the Agoge.
To make sure the laws were upheld.
Decide on troop numbers and which king led the army in wartime.
Their term was just 1 year.
Did the kings have to go through the agoge?
Yes, if they did not complete it, they would lose their kingship.
How old did you have to be to join the Gerousia? How long was their term?
60, unless you were a king.
The post was for life.
What were the roles and powers of the Gerousia? name 3?
To put forward laws for the Apella (citizen assembly to vote on.
Could veto motions put forward by the citizens and were consulted by the Ephors on laws.
Held the role of the Supreme Court, could even try a king.
Could overturn any decision made by any other part of the Spartan hierarchy.
How did the Spartans elect a new member of the Gerousia?
The citizens would gather and whichever candidate got the loudest shout would be elected.
How many Ephors were there?
5
