
In Our Time
Solon the Lawgiver
Apr 20, 2023
Melissa Lane, a Princeton politics professor, Hans van Wees, an ancient history expert at UCL, and William Allan, a Latin literature professor at Oxford, dive into Solon's revolutionary impact on Athenian society. They discuss the chaotic backdrop of 6th century Athens, marked by economic strife and class struggles. Solon's reforms abolished debt slavery, fostered wider citizen engagement, and laid the groundwork for democracy. His innovative use of poetry helped bridge divides, making laws accessible and encouraging political dialogue during a time of turmoil.
51:20
Episode guests
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.