Agis IV, Kleomenes III, and Spartan Landscapes

This study reassesses the reforms of the mid-third-century Spartan kings. It examines first the possible landscape impacts of oliganthropy and demotion to 'Inferior' status. Possible attempts, by state or individuals, to combat inequality by cultivating unused land or ignoring the prohibition on manual labour did not solve the problem. Since Sparta and perioikic poleis possessed distinct territories, 'Malea(s)' in Plutarch's account of Agis's land reforms should mean Mt Parnon, not Cape Malea; it was only Sparta's own chōra that Agis IV and Kleomenes III could redesign. Disadvantaging the perioikoi was impossible, given the relative increase in their power within Laconia.