Why did Voltaire declare that "Sparta became Athens" when Frederick the Great assumed power in Prussia?
A) Frederick collected artifacts from Greece.
B) Frederick decreased his father's military forces.
C) Frederick turned from military pursuits to cultural pursuits.
D) Frederick opened a university devoted to liberal arts.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Voltaire likely meant that Frederick transformed Prussia from a strictly militaristic society into one that also valued intellectual and cultural pursuits, similar to the way Athens valued art, philosophy, and democracy. This was a significant departure from the more Spartan-like approach to governance and defines a significant shift in Prussian culture.

Why Did Voltaire Declare That "Sparta Became Athens" When Frederick