Aeschines Quotes
- Statesman
- Greece
- 389 BC
Aeschines (389-314 BC) was an Athenian statesman and orator of Ancient Greece. He is best known for his three surviving speeches, which are considered some of the greatest examples of Attic oratory. He was a contemporary of Demosthenes, and the two were rivals in the political arena. Aeschines was a…Read More
Aeschines (389-314 BC) was an Athenian statesman and orator of Ancient Greece. He is best known for his three surviving speeches, which are considered some of the greatest examples of Attic oratory. He was a contemporary of Demosthenes, and the two were rivals in the political arena. Aeschines was a staunch opponent of the Macedonian king Philip II, and his most famous speech, Against Ctesiphon, was a response to a proposal to honor Demosthenes for his opposition to Philip. Aeschines was also a prolific writer, producing works on rhetoric, philosophy, and history. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures of the Classical period.Read Less
Aeschines (389-314 BC) was an Athenian statesman and orator of Ancient Greece. He is best known for his three surviving speeches, which are considered some of the greatest examples of Attic oratory. He was a contemporary of Demosthenes, and the two were rivals in the political arena. Aeschines was a staunch opponent of the Macedonian king Philip II, and his most famous speech, Against Ctesiphon, was a response to a proposal to honor Demosthenes for his opposition to Philip. Aeschines was also a prolific writer, producing works on rhetoric, philosophy, and history. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures of the Classical period.
5 Best Aeschines Quotes
Aeschines Career Highlights
Aeschines was a prominent Greek statesman and orator who lived from 389 BC to 314 BC. He is best known for his rivalry with fellow orator Demosthenes and his involvement in the political events of ancient Athens.Aeschines began his career as a clerk in the Athenian army, but soon turned to politics and became a disciple of the famous orator Isocrates. He quickly rose to prominence as a skilled speaker and was elected to the Athenian assembly in 348 BC.In 346 BC, Aeschines was sent as an ambassador to Philip II of Macedon, where he negotiated a peace treaty between Athens and Macedon. This earned him great praise and solidified his position as a respected politician.In 343 BC, Aeschines and Demosthenes became bitter rivals, with Aeschines representing the pro-Macedonian faction and Demosthenes the anti-Macedonian faction. This rivalry would continue for the rest of their lives and would shape the political landscape of Athens.
Key Contributions by Aeschines
Aeschines was a skilled orator and his speeches were highly praised for their eloquence and persuasive power. He was known for his ability to sway the opinions of the Athenian assembly and was often called upon to speak on important matters of state.One of Aeschines’ key contributions was his role in negotiating the peace treaty between Athens and Macedon. This helped to maintain peace in the region and prevent further conflict between the two powers.Aeschines also played a significant role in the political events of Athens, particularly in his rivalry with Demosthenes. His speeches and actions had a major impact on the decisions made by the Athenian assembly and helped to shape the city’s policies.
What Sets Aeschines Apart
Aeschines’ oratory skills and political influence set him apart from his contemporaries. He was known for his ability to captivate audiences with his speeches and was highly respected for his political acumen.His rivalry with Demosthenes also sets him apart, as it was one of the most famous and influential political rivalries in ancient Greece. Aeschines’ pro-Macedonian stance and Demosthenes’ anti-Macedonian stance created a dynamic and contentious political landscape in Athens.
Takeaways
Aeschines’ career highlights and key contributions demonstrate his significant impact on the political and social landscape of ancient Athens. His skills as an orator and his role in negotiating the peace treaty between Athens and Macedon solidify his place as a prominent figure in Greek history.His rivalry with Demosthenes serves as a reminder of the power of political discourse and the influence of individual personalities in shaping the course of history. Aeschines’ legacy continues to be studied and admired by scholars and politicians alike, making him a lasting figure in the annals of Greek history.