Евпатриды и demou hegemones: афинская аристократия архаического периода

Проблемы истории, филологии, культуры. 2021. № 1. С. 210–232.

Gushchin V.

This paper deals with Athenian aristocracy of Archaic period. According to the historical tradition (Plutarch, Aristotle), aristocracy arises as a result of the so-called synoikism of Theseus. We are talking about the class of Eupatrids. In the research literature this information treats with great caution. The interpretation of this corporation as an order raises doubts. Moreover, in recent years it has been suggested that the term Eupatrids came into use not earlier than the 6th century B.C.

Solon's poems are undoubtedly an important source of information about Archaic Athenian aristocracy. In his poems the Athenian reformer criticizes fellow citizens for the awakened craving for enrichment. This is especially true of the aristocracy and certain demou hegemones. In this paper is suggested that demou hegemones were the part of the aristocracy that endowed with state power. It is well known that Aristotle calls the political system of Athens on the eve of Solon's reforms as oligarchic. Therefore, it makes sense to raise the question of who were these oligarchs (i.e. demou hegemones)? Could they be, for example, the Alcmeonids, about whom we know more than of any other aristocratic family?

Keywords: Ancient Greece, Древняя Греция, аристократия, aristocracy, Древние Афины, Ancient Athens, Solon, Солон