The Olynthiacs and the Phillippics of Demosthenes (eBook)

Literally translated with notes

Demosthenes (Autor)

eBook Download: EPUB

2022
86 Seiten
DigiCat (Verlag)
859-654725379-2 (EAN)

Infos

In 'The Olynthiacs and the Philippics of Demosthenes,' the iconic Athenian statesman and orator delivers a powerful critique of Macedonian hegemony in the fourth century BCE. The Olynthiacs, a series of three speeches, call for Athenian intervention in the face of Philip II's expansionist ambitions, while the Philippics vehemently urge a united response against the imminent threat posed by Macedon. Utilizing a passionate and eloquent rhetorical style, Demosthenes crafts artful appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos, masterfully engaging his audience and invoking the collective spirit of the Athenian democracy to act decisively. His works remain significant not only for their historical context but also for their exemplary rhetorical structure, serving as a guide for statesmanship and civic responsibility. Demosthenes (384–322 BCE) is often heralded as one of the greatest orators of antiquity, whose lifelong dedication to the art of rhetoric stemmed from his struggles with speech impediments. His rigorous self-improvement and commitment to political life were deeply motivated by the challenges faced by Athens during his lifetime, particularly the rise of Macedonian power under Philip II and Alexander the Great. Such historical pressures informed his impassioned pleas for unity and action, reflecting his fervent belief in the resilience of Athenian democracy. This compelling collection is essential reading for anyone interested in ancient Greek politics, rhetoric, and history. Demosthenes' persuasive mastery not only illuminates his immediate historical context but also provides timeless insights into the dynamics of power, civic engagement, and the art of persuasion. Engaging with 'The Olynthiacs and the Philippics' invites readers to reflect on the enduring relevance of rhetoric in the face of political adversity.

Autor

Demosthenes (384–322 BCE) stands among the most influential orators and statesmen of Ancient Greece, renowned for his mastery in the art of rhetoric and his impassioned pleas for the freedom of Greek cities from foreign dominion. Born in Athens, Demosthenes overcame early impediments in his speech to become a powerful speaker. His rigorous self-training, coupled with an in-depth study of literature and law, propelled him to the forefront of Athenian politics. Demosthenes' significant contributions to literature include 'The Olynthiacs' and 'The Philippics,' both pivotal in understanding the political climate of his era. In 'The Olynthiacs,' Demosthenes addresses the threat posed by Philip II of Macedon to the city of Olynthus and urges Athenians to aid their allies. His 'Philippics,' a series of speeches, continue in similar vein, showcasing his fervent opposition to Macedonian encroachment and his commitment to the cause of Athenian democracy and autonomy. His speeches are not solely political, but they are also literary treasures, exemplifying his skillful use of pathos and logos to sway public opinion. Although ultimately unable to prevent the rise of Macedon, Demosthenes' eloquence and dedication to his city's liberty have immortalized him as an exemplar of civic patriotism and the power of the spoken word (Kennedy, 1963; Harris, 1994).

Produkt-Details

• Erscheint lt. Verlag: 4.9.2022
• Übersetzer: Charles Rann Kennedy
• Verlagsort: Prague
• Sprache: englisch
• Themenwelt: Literatur
• Themenwelt: Sachbuch/Ratgeber ► Geschichte / Politik ► Vor- und Frühgeschichte / Antike
• Themenwelt: Sozialwissenschaften ► Politik / Verwaltung ► Politische Theorie
• Schlagworte: addresses • Alexander the Great critique • Ancient Greek Literature • Ancient Greek Oratory • Ancient Greek Rhetoric • Ancient Political Orators • ancient political theory • Athenian Assembly • Athenian Demagogues • Athenian democracy • Athenian democratic values • Athens • Classical Athenian Politics • Classical historical discourse • Classical Oratory • Classical Philology • classical studies reference • Demosthenes public oratory • Demosthenes speeches • Early works to 1800 • Greece • Greek • Greek Democracy • Historical rhetoric • historical speeches • Literary eloquence mastery • Oratorical Style • persuasive argumentation techniques • Philip II confrontation • Philip of Macedon • political classics • Political criticism • Political engagement call • political speeches collection • Politics and government • public speeches • rhetoric and persuasion • speeches • Translations into English