Lysistrata takes us down to the year of oligarchic revolt, overthrow of democracy 411 (14 years after Acharnians)

With Athens' defeat in Sicily (413), Sparta has renewed the war, laying siege to Attica with permanent encampment at Decelea. Athens attempts constitutional reform, election of 10 high commissioners (probouloi) a device typical of oligarchies, constitutional watchdog with veto of illegal or ruinous legislation.

Meanwhile major revolt of the allies (as many predicted) Chios, Miletus, Mitylene. Sparta makes a deal with Persia (at cost of Greek freedom in Asia).

By Spring of 411 Athens regained north grain route but lost most Ionian cities. The army is encamped en masse in Samos.

 

1) What happens in the play? Summarize the turns of action.

 

2) Identify roles of key characters. Analyze, in particular, the character of Lysistrata.

NB agon pp. 156-65.

3) Take special note again of passages relevant to national identity.

What is the meaning of the women's revolt in this context?

Woman's predicament is often the best index of national well-being (as Dicaeopolis' daughter in Acharnians) Find such passages in Lysistrata.

 

4) What's wrong with Athens? Find key passages reflecting on this question.

 

What is Lysistrata's solution: (not just peace with Sparta) how can divisions within Athenian nation be fixed?