Epilogue

Abstract

Abstract The concluding chapter draws together the discussion about different forms of institutionalization of the notion of divided power as discussed in Chapters 2–6. It points out that among the three concepts of sovereignty (Souveränität, Staatsgewalt, and Herrschaft), only the former two (state personality and monopoly of coercion) can be found in the Greek world. The notion of Herrschaft indicating the final authority of a single institution, the one most frequently used when talking about Greek decision-making, is not applicable to the political systems of the Classical and Hellenistic Greek poleis. The chapter argues that the idea of divided power was widespread among different political regimes and is clearly identified in the working of the political institutions and procedures of decree-making. It also considers cases of breakdown of the system of divided power and the tension between normativity of institutions and social conflict. This final chapter reaffirms the methodological importance of studying political values and ideas from a unitary perspective which brings together institutional analysis and social and cultural approaches.