Pericles' Athens

1. According to Pericles, what precisely makes Athens great?

Pericles, a famous orator, believed Athens was great because of the structure of its government and its peoples’ way of life. The government was “in the hands of many and not few,” a democracy. Because of this, the citizens of Athens were afforded privileges such as equal justice in private disputes, and recognition in society based not completely on one’s background (such as class) but upon one’s personal accomplishments. He insisted that citizens were prevented from doing wrong because of respect for authorities and for the law. Pericles also thought that the citizens of Athens make the state great.  The citizens were able to adapt to the varied forms of action with “versatility and grace.”  They were brave and intelligent. Finally, Pericles believed that the city of Athens was a unique place. Pericles stated that poverty was never an “obstacle” in Athens.   In times of peace and war, businesses thrived and there was no exclusiveness in public life. Throughout the city architecture was beautiful and elegant. The city was filled with recreation for the purpose of balancing hard work and relaxation. The education system in Athens taught kids to be smart and brave. Lastly, Pericles states that because Athens was prominent in the trading world, they were able to enjoy both their goods and the goods of foreign nations.

2. How does Athens compare to other city-states in regard to the above?

Athens compared to the other city-states by being an example to them all. The Athenian government was original in how it structured its democracy. In Pericles’ view, it was model to other city-states. In terms of its citizens, Pericles insisted that Athenians were braver and had more heart than the people of surrounding city-states. Pericles described Athens as having the bravest citizens in times of war. In addition, Pericles marveled at Athens’ military. It was “superior to all of their enemies.” The army did not find difficulty in wars and extended its hand in friendship whenever it could. It was a safer, more prosperous, and more beautiful city than any other.

3. What are some problems you see with Pericles' Athens?

I see that Pericles’ Athens sounds too good to be true.  It seems to me like Pericles had his head in the clouds.  He was so excited about his city that it seems that he was not looked to further progress and improve on what his city had already accomplished.  Second, even though Pericles thought of his government as a democracy, like in any democracy, not everyone could have been represented and happy.  Pericles described everyone in Athens as being respectful and prosperous and living an honest life.  Though this ideally sounds wonderful, I believe that there is no way that Pericles could speak for everyone in Athens. There had to be individuals who didn’t follow the rules and didn’t live the wholesome Athenian life.   What is concerning to me is Pericles’ negligence to any problems in Athens.  I understand the Pericles’ role during that speech was to glorify his city, but his words were perhaps too adoring and not realistic enough.