The Oldest Drinking Game: Kottabos

In human history, drinking games have been a part of social gatherings and festive occasions for millennia. However, concrete evidence of these games dates back to ancient times. One of the oldest known drinking games is Kottabos, originating from ancient Greece. While details on the drinking games of early civilizations like Babylon remain elusive, Kottabos offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient amusements and social practices.

Origins and History of Kottabos

Also known as Kottabos or Kottaboskopia, Kottabos is a musical drinking game that involves flicking or dripping remaining wine from a kylix (a type of ancient Greek wine cup) at a target, primarily a marble or another small object placed in a bowl on a low table. This game was popular among Greeks and Romans in symposia and feasts.

The game's name Kottabos is derived from the Greek word kottabos, meaning "remains of wine," reflecting the nature of the game, which involves the process of drinking wine slowly in order to have a small amount left in the cup. The ancient Greeks and Romans were known for their sophisticated drinking vessels, from the kylix to the kantharos, which were designed not only for drinking but also for exhibition and competition.

How Kottabos Was Played

The game was played by one or more players sitting on low stools or the ground. Each player would have a kylix and a target, usually a small bowl or a small round object. The objective was to flick the remaining wine from the bottom of the kylix at the target, trying to hit it with as little splash as possible. Scoring was based on the accuracy of the shot. The game involved both physical skill and strategy, as players had to anticipate their opponents' moves and keep a steady hand.

Significance of Kottabos in Ancient Times

While Kottabos was primarily a form of entertainment and social interaction, it also served as a form of education and training. The game required concentration, precision, and dexterity, which were valuable skills in many aspects of ancient life, from military training to domestic activities. Moreover, the game often took place during symposia, which were not only social gatherings but also important cultural and political events. These symposia were a means of socializing, gossiping, and conducting political discourse, and Kottabos was often played to add a fun and competitive element to the gatherings.

Legacy and Influence of Kottabos

The influence of Kottabos extended beyond its immediate context. The game's principles of precision and strategy found echoes in other forms of ancient Greek and Roman sports and activities, such as archery and military training. Even today, the concept of Kottabos can be seen in some modern drinking games, where precision and aim are crucial.

Conclusion

While we may never know the exact drinking games that the ancient Babylonians played, Kottabos stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and social customs of ancient societies. It provides a window into the lives of our ancestors and their creative use of rituals and games to mark significant social and cultural moments.

Today, the principles and spirit of Kottabos can still be observed in various drinking games around the world, where friends and families gather to share a drink, engage in friendly competition, and celebrate together.