The Athenian Citizen: Democracy in the Athenian Agora

Agora Picture Books

by Mabel Lang, John M. Camp

A concise introduction to the workings of ancient democracy, The Athenian Citizen has been a bestseller since the original edition was first published almost 60 years ago by Mabel Lang. Using archaeological evidence from excavations at the heart of ancient Athens, this volume shows how tribal identity was central to all aspects of civic life, guiding the reader through the duties of citizenship as soldier in times of war and as juror during the peace. The checks and balances that protected Athenian society from tyrants, such as legal assassination and ostracism, are described. Selected inscriptions are illustrated and discussed, as are ingenious devices such as allotment machines and water clocks, which ensured fairness in the courts. The book ends with some of the lasting products of classical the silver coins accepted around the known world and the standard weights and measures that continue to protect the consumer from unscrupulous merchants. Illustrated entirely in color, with updates and revisions by the current director of excavations at the Agora, this edition of an acknowledged classic will inform and fascinate visitors and students for many years to come.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Saba · Rating 3 out of 5]

A brief, interesting, and easy to follow introduction to democracy in Athens, Greece.

Most interesting facts:
- Agora (Center of public activity) buildings: the Council House (Bouleuterion), magistrates’ headquarters, archives, mint, lawcourts, and civic offices. Boundary stones used
- People who didn't attend meetings were fined
- Magistrates accused of mismanaging funds were tried in court
- The sales tax was made clear after the price of products
- Copies of drafted bills were posted publicly
- Time was measured by a klepsydra (water clock) in court
- Coins were called “owls” (which is the most adorable thing)

[Helen · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's an okay crash course but other than that, not terribly useful.

[Scott Zuke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and informative. If you need to cram on the Agora, this would work.