The Olynthiacs and the Phillippics of Demosthenes

Demosthenes · 4th century BCE (during the Olynthian crisis, i.e., before Philip II’s final subjugation of Olynthus) primary

passage 58 of 64 · (58/63)

in brief

He says unjust reproach and inflammatory speech excuse citizens from duty, and claims that political failure is often tied to this kind of attack, implying deeper social conflict.

doors, and growing up in the centre of Greece to be the plunderer of her people; I marvel, I dread this man, whoever he is, because he dreads not Philip.

There is another thing too, the attacking of which by unjust reproach and improper language hurts the state, and affords an excuse to men who are unwilling to perform any public duty: indeed you will find that every failure to discharge the obligation of a citizen is attributable to this. I am really afraid to discuss the matter; however, I will speak out.

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topics: faction, party, and civil strife · justice as a virtue

The Olynthiacs and the Phillippics of Demosthenes · Demosthenes · 349–342 BCE