Les élites athéniennes, le cheval et la mer au siècle de Périclès

Abstract

This paper analyzes the attitudes and values of the Athenian elite at the time of the imperialism of the fifth century. While some sources point to the ideological divide between the interests of well-born and those of the demos, the facts emphasize the solidarity of all for the city service. By the horse, sign of distinction, and the sea, space of their power, the elites have not stopped trying to gain fame. Social recognition is played for them, both in the hippodrome and in the Athenian maritime adventure. However, this eumonia could break in a crisis when the hospitality links (xenia) reminded everyone that for the elites, there was a living out of the city and its borders.