The Paidonomus is best described as which of the following?

• A. Tutor who trains male children
• B. Senior Spartiate educator
• C. Greek teachers
• D. Protectors of the society

Answer: (B)

Paidonomos means “leader of the boys.” In Sparta, this role was a senior Spartiate entrusted with running the agoge, the state-sponsored education and training of male youths. He oversaw discipline, physical training, and moral instruction to shape future citizens and warriors. Because the paidonomos is an official, high-ranking educator specifically chosen from the Spartiates, he is best described as a senior Spartiate educator. It’s more than a general tutor or a broad label for “Greek teachers,” and it isn’t about guarding society as a whole.