Noon
`` That which the Ionian calls pleasure is to me but tedious vanity ; that which he calls grace , is to me but enervate levity . Me it pleases to find the day , from sunrise to night , full of occupations that leave no languor , that employ , but not excite . For the morning , our gymnasia , our military games , the chace -- diversions that brace the limbs and leave us in peace fit for war -- diversions , which , unlike the brawls of the wordy Agora , bless us with the calm mind and clear spirit resulting from vigorous habits , and ensuring jocund health . Noon brings our simple feast , shared in public , enlivened by jest ; late at eve we collect in our Leschae , and the winter nights seem short , listening to the old men 's talk of our sires and heroes . To us life is one serene yet active holiday . No Spartan condescends to labour , yet no Spartan can womanise himself by ease . For us , too , differing from you Ionian Greeks , for us women are companions , not slaves .