Of Rule and Office

Focusing on the concept of political office, Melissa Lane examines its crucial role in Greek politics and political theory, challenging the traditional emphasis on courts and assemblies. She argues that the understanding of politics, particularly in Plato's works, is deeply rooted in the practices of officeholding and accountability. By exploring historical contexts, especially in Athens, Lane highlights how officeholders were constrained by the ruled through elections and oversight, shaping the dynamics of power. This analysis offers new insights into the interplay of ruling, accountability, and the significance of office in both ancient and modern political thought.