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If the hallmarks of the Classical Athenian oikos were insularity, hierarchy and division of labour, the city itself, the polis, was dominated by egalitarianism and a strong feeling of openness. There was noticeable tension during this period between oikos and polis (as has often been pointed out), and outward signs of this tension were a staple of Greek tragedy. |
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The experience of the wars against the Persians was something that did much to shape the development of the city of Athens during the Classical period. The Persian Wars set off a chain reaction, where cause and effect, conscious action and reaction, 'domestic' and 'foreign' are impossible to disentangle.
Arguably the chief consequence of the Persian Wars was that thanks to its success in military encounters, the navy's importance to the city was recognized. Athens' naval force was decisive for maintaining her authority over her allies in the Delian League. This enabled the city to flourish economically and her citizens to win glory and honour through the city. At the same time, the importance of the fleet improved the status of the thetes - the small peasants and labourers. What they demanded was more civic rights. They got them - after the Persian Wars - lost them when democracy was overthrown in 403 B.C., and then got them back again after a struggle. |
So we can see a shift in the relative importance of oikos and polis, given that in this context (but in no other) all citizens were equals. Certain features of the polis were the result of its development, and of broadening the right to participate in direct political processes. Among these features may be mentioned an upsurge in the number of slaves, and the arrival in droves of the foreigners known as 'metics'. What the metics wanted was a chance to exploit the many economic and cultural opportunities Athens offered. We can see why Thucydides, through Pericles, described Athens as 'the school of all Hellas'.
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