On the Crown
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"On the Crown" is a famous oration by Demosthenes, an Athenian statesman and orator. Delivered in 330 BCE, it was Demosthenes' defense of his career and policies against his rival, Aeschines.12
The speech addresses Demosthenes' actions over two decades, particularly his opposition to Philip II of Macedon and his son, Alexander the Great. Demosthenes argued that his policies, aimed at preserving Athenian independence and democracy, were correct, contrasting them with Aeschines' perceived pro-Macedonian stance. The oration is considered a masterpiece of rhetorical art and a significant historical document, offering insights into 4th-century Athenian politics.123
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DemosthenesLeader of the democratic faction…himself in his speech “On the Crown” against the attacks of his lifelong rival, Aeschines, he did not scruple to call him “sly beast,” “idle babbler,” “court hack,” and “polluted.” Demosthenes was not merely better at abuse than most; he also realized the advantage of making an audience lose…
Read More…himself in his speech “On the Crown” against the attacks of his lifelong rival, Aeschines, he did not scruple to call him “sly beast,” “idle babbler,” “court hack,” and “polluted.” Demosthenes was not merely better at abuse than most; he also realized the advantage of making an audience lose…
Read More- DemosthenesLeader of the democratic faction
” The oration “On the Crown,” Demosthenes’ reply to Aeschines’ charges of vacillating in his policy, accepting bribes, and displaying cowardice in battle, is universally acknowledged as a masterpiece of rhetorical art. It covers the entire two decades of Greek involvement with Philip and Alexander, contrasting Demosthenes’ policies…
Read More” The oration “On the Crown,” Demosthenes’ reply to Aeschines’ charges of vacillating in his policy, accepting bribes, and displaying cowardice in battle, is universally acknowledged as a masterpiece of rhetorical art. It covers the entire two decades of Greek involvement with Philip and Alexander, contrasting Demosthenes’ policies…
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