The Nature of Self-Defense in Draco’s Homicide Law: The Restoration of IG I3 104, lines 33–35

Abstract

This essay studies the phrase “starting unjust blows” (ἄρχων χειρῶν ἀδίκων) which has been restored in lines 33–35 of Draco’s homicide law (IG I³ 104). A careful examination of the phrase shows that it does not come from a statute about homicide, but about a law concerning assault (αἰκείας). The phrase should therefore not be restored in lines 33–35 of Draco’s law. A new edition of the inscription is urgently needed.