Although ancient Athens is considered the birthplace of democracy, its political system differed from the representative democracies found in countries such as the United States. The direct democracy of ancient Athens permitted all citizens to vote on laws, and dictated that 500 randomly chosen citizens be appointed each year to serve on the Council of 500, the city’s main legislative body. The laws of ancient Athens were truly of, by, and for the people.

You will be assigned topics that reflect the issues surrounding the democratic system of ancient Greece. Working in partners, use what you have learned to write and perform a script in which a reporter interviews a member of the Council of 500 about the process of direct democracy. To prepare for your performance, you will research the origins and legacy of ancient Greek government.

Look at the illustration below. Answer the following questions on a separate sheet of paper.

Illustration of a state prison in ancient Athens.

• Why would citizens of a free, democratic society such as Athens want the government to imprison those who break laws?
• Why might prisons be considered to be a hallmark of civilized, governed society?

Use the Daily Life through History articles listed on the right to research Athenian government and its system of direct democracy. Examine the Timeline. As you read, keep your assigned topics and point of view in mind. Remember that your interview script will need to include specific details about the political life, social order, and direct democratic system of ancient Athens.

Use the 2-Column Table to organize your information. On the left, write the topics that you are researching, such as Council of 500. On the right, fill in facts about these topics, such as randomly chosen civilians. You will need to find at least 10 facts to be mentioned in your interview script.

Write an interview script with ten questions and responses. When the script is complete, you will perform your historical interview for the class. Be sure to speak slowly and clearly, and adjust your tone and style to create an authentic effect.

Your teacher will use these questions to assess your performance:

• Did your historical interview address the advantages and disadvantages of direct democracy?
• Did your historical interview incorporate at least ten accurate facts?
• Did your writing and performance reflect creative thinking?
• Did you use an appropriate style and voice?