具体描述
This is the tenth volume in the "Oratory of Classical Greece". This series presents all of the surviving speeches from the late fifth and fourth centuries BC in new translations prepared by classical scholars who are at the forefront of the discipline. These translations are especially designed for the needs and interests of today's undergraduates, Greekless scholars in other disciplines, and the general public. Classical oratory is an invaluable resource for the study of ancient Greek life and culture. The speeches offer evidence on Greek moral views, social and economic conditions, political and social ideology, law and legal procedure, and other aspects of Athenian culture that have recently been attracting particular interest: women and family life, slavery, and religion, to name just a few. Demosthenes is regarded as the greatest orator of classical antiquity. This volume contains his Funeral Oration (Speech 60) for those who died in the Battle of Chaeronea in 338 BC, in which Philip of Macedonia secured his dominance over Greece, as well as the so-called Erotic Essay (Speech 61), a rhetorical exercise in which the speaker eulogizes the youth Epicrates for his looks and physical prowess and encourages him to study philosophy in order to become a virtuous and morally upright citizen. The volume also includes fifty-six prologues (the openings to political speeches to the Athenian Assembly) and six letters apparently written during the orator's exile from Athens. Because, so little literature survives from the 330s and 320s BC, these works provide valuable insights into Athenian culture and politics of that era.
Demosthenes: The Golden Age of Athenian Oratory This collection delves into the profound impact of Demosthenes, the preeminent orator of ancient Athens, through the lens of two of his most compelling speeches. While specific speech content is not detailed here, the surrounding context illuminates the era and the man himself. The Athenian Context: A City on the Brink Ancient Athens, during the 4th century BCE, was a city grappling with immense internal and external pressures. The proud democracy, a beacon of Western political thought, was facing its most significant existential threat. Philip II of Macedon, a charismatic and ambitious ruler, was steadily expanding his dominion southwards, his military prowess and shrewd diplomacy eroding Athenian influence and autonomy. This period was marked by intense political debate, shifting alliances, and a palpable sense of urgency as citizens debated how best to preserve their freedom and their way of life. Within this volatile political landscape, the public assembly, the Pnyx, served as the crucible for Athenian democracy. Here, citizens gathered to hear impassioned speeches, debate policy, and ultimately decide the fate of their polis. The art of rhetoric was not merely an academic pursuit; it was a vital tool for persuasion, a weapon in the arsenal of those seeking to guide the city's destiny. Demosthenes: The Voice of Resistance Demosthenes emerged as the most powerful and unwavering voice advocating for Athenian resistance against Macedonian encroachment. Born into a wealthy family, he overcame personal challenges and a difficult start to his career to become a master of public speaking. His oratory was renowned for its intellectual rigor, emotional power, and meticulous craftsmanship. He possessed an extraordinary ability to dissect complex political situations, identify the core issues, and articulate a compelling vision for action. His speeches were not simply pronouncements; they were carefully constructed arguments designed to sway public opinion, galvanize the citizenry, and mobilize the resources of the Athenian state. He understood the psychology of his audience, employing a range of rhetorical devices – from logical appeals and historical precedents to vivid imagery and impassioned appeals to patriotism – to achieve his objectives. His commitment to Athens and its democratic ideals was absolute, and he dedicated his life to awakening his fellow citizens to the dangers they faced and inspiring them to defend their heritage. The Power of Persuasion: Oratory as a Force for Change The speeches of Demosthenes represent the pinnacle of classical Greek oratory. They offer an invaluable window into the political and intellectual life of Athens at a critical juncture. Beyond their historical significance, these speeches are enduring masterpieces of persuasive communication. They demonstrate the power of language to shape thought, inspire action, and even alter the course of history. To study Demosthenes is to engage with a mind that possessed an uncanny understanding of human nature and the dynamics of power. His ability to articulate complex arguments with clarity and force, to evoke strong emotions, and to inspire unwavering conviction is a testament to his genius. His orations are not merely records of past events; they are living documents that continue to resonate with relevance, offering timeless lessons on leadership, civic responsibility, and the enduring struggle for freedom. Understanding the Speeches: A Deeper Engagement While the specific arguments and proposals within speeches 60 and 61 are not detailed here, their existence within Demosthenes' corpus signifies their importance in his broader campaign against Macedonian influence. Each speech served a distinct purpose within his strategic approach. They likely addressed specific financial matters, military preparations, or diplomatic overtures that were crucial to Athens' survival. The study of these speeches, therefore, necessitates an appreciation for the intricate web of political machinations, economic realities, and social anxieties that characterized Athens at that time. It requires an understanding of the legal and constitutional framework within which Demosthenes operated, and the expectations placed upon an orator in the Athenian assembly. Through his masterful command of language and his unwavering dedication, Demosthenes sought not merely to win debates, but to save his city from the encroaching shadow of Philip of Macedon, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and instruct to this day.
