To Philip

"To Philip" is an oration by Isocrates, an Athenian orator and teacher. Written around 346 BCE, it was a plea to Philip II of Macedon to unite the Greek city-states and lead them in a campaign against the Persian Empire. Isocrates believed that such a unified effort would bring peace and prosperity to Greece, addressing issues like poverty through colonization.12

This oration is part of Isocrates' broader Panhellenist political program, advocating for Greek unity. It reflects his deep concern for the state of Greece, which was fragmented by internal conflicts. The speech also highlights the growing power of Macedon under Philip II, whom Isocrates saw as a potential unifier. The concept of "Philippic" speeches, warning against Philip's ambitions, was later popularized by the orator Demosthenes.123