Demosthenes Letters
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Demosthenes

Letters

oratory

Six letters attributed to Demosthenes, written during his exile. Their authenticity is debated, but they illuminate the politics of the post-Chaeronea period.

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Letters

  • Περὶ τῆς ὁμονοίας

    Demosthenes writes from exile, defending his political career and protesting the injustice of his banishment from Athens.

    ~910 words
  • Περὶ τῆς ἰδίας καθόδου

    A letter addressing the political situation in Athens during Demosthenes' absence, urging his allies to maintain resistance to Macedon.

    ~1,490 words
  • Περὶ τῶν Λυκούργου παιδῶν

    Demosthenes writes on the state of Greek liberty, arguing that submission to Macedon would mean the end of democratic self-governance.

    ~2,540 words
  • Περὶ τῆς Θηραμένους βλασφημίας

    A letter appealing for reconciliation among the democratic factions in Athens, warning that division serves only Philip's heirs.

    ~700 words
  • Πρὸς Ἡρακλεόδωρον

    Demosthenes defends his financial conduct in office, responding to charges of corruption that he attributes to political enemies.

    ~300 words
  • Πρὸς τὴν βουλὴν καὶ τὸν δῆμον τὸν Ἀθηναίων

    The final letter in the collection addresses the future of Greek independence in the age of Macedonian supremacy.

    ~130 words
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