The Agoge was the rigorous education and training program for male citizens of Sparta, designed to cultivate discipline, physical fitness, and military skills. Starting at age seven, boys were taken from their families and placed in communal living arrangements, where they learned survival skills, combat techniques, and teamwork. The program emphasized endurance, obedience, and loyalty to the state. The Agoge was not just about physical training; it also included lessons in music, poetry, and social conduct. This holistic approach aimed to produce well-rounded citizens who could contribute to the militaristic and austere society of Sparta. Completion of the Agoge was essential for achieving full citizenship.