English 8 summer reading - Pericles responses
Post your responses to the questions on Pericles’ Funeral Oration here. Number the responses as they are numbered on the quia site. Rember to leave only your first name and last initial, a fake email address, and no web page.
Here are the Summer Responses to Pericle’s funeral oration.
Pericles:
1. Summarize the basic ideas. You may use any resources you find.
The first point that Pericles makes, is that he wishes that “the reputations of many brave men were not imperiled by the mouth of a single individual.” He also adds facts that explain how hard it is to deliver this speech, and says that he recognizes the duty to obey what the law says and try to do the best he can.
The next thing that Pericles talks about is the praise of the ancestors. He praises them for the empire and success they now have, and he also praises them of the past of which the military achievements that gave them “the several possessions we have now.” Pericles then proposes to focus on “the road by which we reached our position, the form of government under which our greatness grew, and the national habits out of which it sprang”. This amounts to a focus on present day Athens; Pericles then decides to praise the dead from war by celebrating the city for which they died.
The next point which turns out to be the longest is the subject of the greatness of Athens. He first states that the laws give “equal justice to all in their private differences”. He also tells of the freedom of what you can do under the law, but he says that even with those thing there are boundaries in Athens. They teach each other to obey the law. He points out also that they have lots of fun and games, and the “elegance of our private establishments forms the source of daily pleasure”. Pericles also talks about the military policy and how they “fighting upon a foreign soil usually vanquish with ease men who are defending their homes”. Even when they are under attack Pericles says that they “live exactly as we please, yet ready to encounty every danger” . He then goes on to tell of how intelligent they are, like how they “cultivate refinement without extravagance and knowledge without effeminacy”. Then he says that all the good things he has said about Athen were not boasts but true, and that the power of the state proves it. When he tells about “holding the vengeance upon their enemies” was wanted more than personal blessings, and that the dead now where acting bodly and trusting themselves. And when they chose to die resisting, the fled only from dishonour, “but met danger face to face… and escaped, not from fear, but from their glory”.
The next point that Pericles makes is to tell the Athens how to handle the dead. He tells them to follow in the dead’s footsteps, not to die but to their work to the best they could, and realize all they can do. Like the heroes that died they need to offer the best thing they could. And then he states that because of all of the people that died made what Athens is now.
The last point Pericles makes is that he thought that he couldn’t have done any better saying what he wanted to point out to the people.
2. What comparisons to the modern day United States of America can you make using this speech?
In Pericles speech he states that the laws of the Athenians give
“equal justice to all in their private differences”, which is something that modern day U.S., is now having as law. And as the Athenians get a lot of freedom and do have boundaries, so does the U.S.
Another thing that we have in common with the Athenians is our military policy and success. Pericles talks about the military policy and how they “fighting upon a foreign soil usually vanquish with ease men who are defending their homes”. Even when they are under attack Pericles says that they “live exactly as we please, yet ready to encounty every danger”. As Americans we have a very powerful army that has successfully defeated many other armies on foreign soil. We also go on with our lifestyle and do as we please even if we are close to danger or in a war.
3. What is Pericles asking of each Athenian citizen?
Pericles is asks each citizen to “determine to have as an unfaltering resolution in the field”, which basically means that each citizen has to learn from the people that died and follow in there steps by taking their example. He also says that each citizen must realize themselves the power that each Athenian has to do their full potential.
Comment by Justin B. — July 31, 2009 @ 09:50
1. In my opinion the basic ideas are to keep fighting on for yourselves and for the men who have already died. Have pride in your country and in this case your country’s government. Also, do not mourn for the dead because they died with honor.
2. The speech is so similar to what we in the U.S. have been told when we have lost young soldiers in the war in the Middle East. We as a country like the Athenians are told we need to fight to keep our freedom. We are also told, like the Athenians, to keep fighting to honor the heroes that have been lost.
3. Pericles is asking the mourners of the dead to keep fighting even at the time when they most feel like giving up because it will honor the dead and save the country they love.
Comment by Sami S — August 16, 2009 @ 19:52
1. Well this speech was said at the funeral of those who had lost their lives during war. They had to follow certain rituals for the funeral. First the bones of the dead were laid out in a tent, then they had coffins for the bones to be concealed, split into each tribe, and lastly, the dead would be buried in the public sepulchre in the city. After those were completed they had to choose a “prominent Athenian citizen” to give a speech. The introduction of Pericles’ speech was how the person who gives the speech has an impossible task. This is because everyone had different views on what should be said and to how much of an extent. He promised to try and please everyone to the best of his ability. His first main point praised those who died to protect their city. They risked their own life for the better for others. Then he moved on to talk about how the great Athens was protected by the men and they didn’t “shy away from risk of war” instead they were brave enough to fight and die and were willing to suffer in her cause. And lastly, Pericles’ notes to those who’s brothers, sons, or husbands died that it may be rough for them but their close companion was honored greatly.
2. There are a few comparisons of modern day United States of America I can make by this speech. First off, people today still risk their lives at war to fight for their country. One thing that is different is that nowadays when a bunch of people die from war they don’t lay the bones out and put them in coffin by tribe and also, they don’t all get buried together they get flied back to their family and the family can make a decision or follow their will. Overall, there are a few things the same and a few things different between the modern day USA and the time taking place during the speech.
3. Pericles’ is asking of every Athenian citizen to put aside their individual needs and strive for the greater good of the city. They submit to the rule of law not because they have to but because it is in their common interest to do so. He is basically asking them to put at risk their individual lives to support others and if you are not willing to take part in city affairs then you are pretty much considered useless.
Comment by Gabby L — August 18, 2009 @ 07:41
I think the basic ideas of Pericle’s speech is that, he expressed his love for Athens, the honor of those who fought and died, and cautions the people of Athens not to be sad, but to rejoice the lives of the warriors.
He expressed his love for Athens by speaking of details no other country has, like their beloved ancestors and their unique constitution. He goes on about how Athens is a great and thriving country . I think he goes on about this because the people are fighting for their country, not for themselves. That is important, because it gives people something to fight for, and that makes people work harder. I believe this is exactly ther right thing to say.
Next, Pericles speaks about the honor and courage of those who died. He says ” none of these allowed either wealth with its prospect of future enjoyment to unnerve his spirit, or poverty with its hope of a day of freedom and riches to tempt him to shrink from danger.” From my point of view he is trying to say that even though they could have quit and had a long life, they chose to fight for their country, and give their lives, so that their children, and their children, could have successfull lives.
Last, but not least, he cautions the Athenians not to dwell on the fact of the dead, but to rejoice with the living. I think this is the most important part of the speech because if you drown in pity, then both of the other topics will fail. If the whole country of Athens is dwelling, then it will no longer be a great and prosperous country. If your pity overcomes your memory, then you can’t remember the honor and valor of those who served and died. That is why that is the most important part.
Overall, I think Pericles was trying to comfort the Athenians, rather than go into pity. This is what the leader should do, rise above everybody and do your job.
Comment by alex s — August 19, 2009 @ 12:04
2. There are quite a few comparisons between Athens and the United States mentioned in this speech. This includes having a democracy, letting people from foreign lands enter the cities, and how normal men can take part in public matters.
First, we both have a democracy. Democracy holds the empire together, without it the country would fold and die. Second, we allow foreigners to come into our country without too much trouble. This may have bad side-effects, but overall it is not that bad. Lastly, grown men can take part in public matters by means of voting or deciding for yourself. This is important because then everybody has a say in what will happen in the community.
I think those are the main comparisons between Athens and The United States of America. I know there are more in the speech, but those are a couple big topics Pericles talks about.
3. I think Pericles is asking a couple things from the Athenian citizens. First, to honor the deceased, and second, to rejoice with the living.
In all battles and accidents people remember those who died valiantly. This is important because if you do not remember how they fought, then they died for no reason. Nobody wants to die without a reason. That is a horrible death, and remembering the ways will keep you on track to a better life.
Second, Pericles asked the Athenians to not pity on the dead. They died for the living, and soon to be living. Do not be sad that they died be excited about a new lifestyle and more land from the recent battle. He says look at the glass half full not half empty.
I believe those are two of the main demands Pericles asked from the Athenians, and I think that led Athens into a more prosperous country.
Comment by alex s — August 20, 2009 @ 10:58
1. I believe that there are a number of basic ideas in Pericles’ Funeral Oration. I believe the first idea is that having the public funeral is a time-honored tradition that should go on, but that the speech is not necessary. Pericles believes that the reputation of the fallen men should be enough of an honor and should not be “imperilled in the mouth of a single individual”.
The second idea is that Pericles believes that the people of Athens should move on from the past military achievements and focus on what is happening in the present. He believes that they should honor the dead by praising the great city for which they died. He believes that they should honor that form of government that allowed their city to flourish as it had, instead of the military actions that also helped.
I believe the next point in his speech is the idea that Athens is the greatest city of the time. At this point of his speech, Pericles mentions the democratic form of government that allowed Athens to become great. He talks about how all citizens of Athens are equal under the law and how social status does not hinder anyone’s ability to serve the state.
The next point in Pericles’ speech is where he asks the living to live up to the expectations set by the dead. The idea is that by living as the deceased did, they will honor them longer. I believe the main idea of Pericles’ Funeral Oration is that we should honor the dead and praise them by honoring what they died for.
2. I believe that there are quite a few comparisons to the modern day United States made in the Oration. One is that there is equal justice to all people under the law. Another comparison is that the United States is open to all people that wish to enter, just as Athens was open to any foreigners. Just as in Athens, in the modern day United States, social status does not hinder anyone’s ability to become what they wish to be. It does not matter if you are poor or wealthy, if you strive to do something you have equal opportunities to do it. Both the citizens of Athens and the United States share the same honor and pride for their home.
3. Pericles is asking a few things of each Athenian citizen. He asks those who are still able to have children to have them in order to replace the children they lost. In turn, this will help the state of Athens. Pericles is also asking each citizen to resolve to live as they deceased did, and love Athens with all their heart. He asks them then to protect Athens as the fallen had so that it may live on as great land for years to come.
Comment by Dillon W. — August 21, 2009 @ 18:34
1.) Summarize the basic ideas. You may use any resources you find.
In Pericles’ Funeral Oration, Pericles’ is trying to convey an important message to the Athenians. During this Peloponnesian War, he wants the citizens not to be afraid or weak. They all have to be strong and though soldiers are dying, they are dying to protect them all. The country must stand together and stand up for what they believe in. Their commitment to their country and their democracy must show.
2.) What comparisons to the modern day United States of America can you make using this speech? We are in a war right now just as the Athenians were way back then. Our government asks of us an equal amount of strength. The soldiers fighting for us in Iraq are just a loyal and brave as the soldiers during Pericles time and they deserve the same praise. I really love what Pericles said about how the “reputations of many brave men” should “not be imperiled in the mouth of a single individual.” We are not fighting. We are not giving up our lives for our country so we have no right to speak for them but we know the capacity of strength they carry with them to be in battle, fighting for all of us.
3.) What is Pericles asking of each Athenian citizen?
Pericles is asking everyone to tough out the war and keep positive.
Comment by Marisa W — August 25, 2009 @ 17:37
1.The basic ideas of this speech are easy to find, in the fact that the speech was broken into definable parts. The first part talks about the Athens tradition of the speaking at the funeral of the war dead. His ideas on this are that is is law, but all the brave warriors, and i quote, “were not to be imperilled in the mouth of a single individual, to stand or fall according as he spoke well or ill.” Pericles also puts the idea out that it is an impossible task to satisfy the relatives of the respected dead, while making sure the ones who aren’t associates aren’t under the idea that their good deeds are being exaggerated.
The next basic idea Pericles hits on is the praising of the dead. Though he does not dwell upon this subject, he does talk about interseting ideas in this section of the speech. He firsts praises the war dead like most other Athen funerals, but then claims, “That part of our history which tells of the military achievements which gave us our several possessions, is a theme too familiar to my hearers for me to dwell upon, and I shall therefore pass it by.” He later talks about the road on which Athens became great.
A major part of this oration was Pericles’ emphasis on the great government, citizens, and the military strength. His belief was that, “Our Constitution does not copy the laws of neighbouring states; we are rather a pattern to others then imitators ourselves.” The basic ideas hit upon in this section are how their military stands strong alone without the help of others. Also, how, “The freedom we enjoy in our government extends also to our ordinary life.”
In Pericles final words he speaks to the living. He passes the responsibilty of either the father, husband, son, or brother to the now living. He tells them to carry out the legacy and to, “determine to have as unaltering a resolution in the field, though you may pray that it may have a happier outcome.” He tells them to grieve but through new birth may come forgetting. Finally he ends with an epiloque on the difficulty of his task, and how he has perfromed it to his fullest. Then after he has brought all to a close, he gives them permission to depart.
2. A major comparison I saw between Pericles speech and the modern United States was their government. We both have a government of democracy. Especially when Pericles said, “The freedom we enjoy in our government extends also to our ordinary life.” That is so true in our everday life, whether it be what book we read, who we worship, or even what time we eat dinner.
Another comparison is when Pericles claimed, “we Athenians advance unsupported into the territory of a neighbour.” I found this to be an unlike comparison to our counrty. The US is a strong and powerful counrty, though when entering a battle we come with our allies. Just as we will follow our allies into any battle. This comparison proves that yes, Athens may be a little more nationalist and independent.
There was one time in the speech where Pericles said, “while the magnitude of our city draws the produce of the world into our harbour, so that to the Athenian the fruits of other countries are as familiar a luxury as those of his own.” For some reason this statement, or opinion seem to be extremely similiar to our country. We have built a strong counrty that is respected, and though we are thankful for it we are also very lucky. You can go to the store and buy bananas straight from the Caribbean Islands or Africa and not realize this history behind where they came. Meanwhile, if citizens from their country were of to drinken a Coke the rareness of it would make them appreciate.
Finally, just a comparison overall to the scenario when Pericles is gving his speech. That is so very similar to our tradition of the passing of a dead. From the coffins to the speaker. We mourn the dead the same way as well as the way they are told to mourn and start a new begining.
3.Nearing the end of Pericles speech, he begins to talk directly to the citizens of Athens. In short he asks them to carry on the legacy and bravery of those that they were mourning today. To live with pride for their country. He also talks to them about their mourning. He tells those able to beget children, “not only will they help you forget those whom you have lost , but will be the state at once a reinforcement and a security.” ANd for those who aren’t, their lasting years will be happy celebrating the fame of the departed.
Comment by Payton C — August 27, 2009 @ 10:46
Pericles
1. The basic ideas of Pericles’ speech demonstrate what a democratic society is all about. The main idea is that the Athenians are able to put aside their small wants for the greater good of the city. He also talks about how the Athenians throw open their city to the world, and never exclude foreigners, stating “at Athens we live exactly as we please, and yet are just as ready to encounter every legitimate danger.” Pericles also tries to help the families deal with the death of their sons, who were soldiers. Pericles says, “Comfort therefore, not condolence, is what I have to offer to the parents of the dead who may be here.”
2. In comparing this speech to modern day USA, I could hear President Obama giving the same type of speech after a battle in Iraq. If you changed the parts in the speech to “American” instead of “Athenian” I think the message would be about the same. In fact, the first line in President Obama’s inauguration speech reflects what Pericles was trying to say. President Obama stated, “I stand here today, humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by your ancestors.” He wants the living to finish out the tasks started by the dead.
Another way Athens was like us was that they were an open country. The United States is just like that today and is a melting-pot of many cultures around the world. We are both widespread democracies that share different beliefs in different parts of our country. But we are still united like Athens was and remain the prominent world power.
3. Pericles is trying to tell the citizens to part from their wants and strive for the good of the whole. He wants to help the citizens and shows them how lucky they are in their democratic country. I believe that in this speech Pericles is very down to earth and is the citizens’ voice.
Comment by McLain — August 30, 2009 @ 19:46
1) Many Athenians were killed in the Peloponessian War. Three days before the ceremony for their burial, the bones of the dead are laid out in a tent for the relatives to bring offerings. On the ceremony day the bones are put in the coffin of their tribe.
Pericles begins his speech by showing his great thanks to those who lost their lives to fight in war and believes they should get titles of honor much more than they die in battle. He wishes he could have shown them his true thanks.
Next, Pericles goes on to speak about the ancestors of the city. He talks about how they should know most about what is said about an occasion like the present. He believes the ancestors and grandfathers, and even their fathers have really been the foundation of the lives they were all living.
Pericles states that we are our own people and live by our own laws that others wish to live by also. The people live using democracy because it works for a majority not just a few select people. We are all treated as equals and therefore are far from exercising jealousness of the others.
Pericles also believes that because of the military, the city is open to anyone in the world freely. Fighting on foreign soil for some can take a toll, but the people of
Athens have an advantage by fighting war to defend their homes. The city is worthy of admiration for many reasons including politics, private affairs, pursuits of industry, and public matters, unlike any other nation.
In the city is the school of Hellas, which produces a more independent, equal to emergencies, and versatile man as an Athenian.
Pericles believes that the character of the country is remarkable because Athens knows how to take the blessings into account and move on past their struggles. Athens uses their city as a strength to problem solve with.
In my opinion, Pericles is then trying to say that this city makes some smart choices when it comes to things like revenge. The city wants to seek vengeance upon their enemies which is a desire, not exactly the right thing to do. So, they really think before acting.
Pericles again continues to talk about the freedom of this country and the bravery of whom were now dead by fighting in this war. He says that “heroes have the whole earth for their tomb; and in lands far from their own, where the column with it epitaph declares it, there is enshrined in every breast a record unwritten with no tablet to preserve it, except that of the heart.” He and everyone else there are so greatful yet sad for the ones who died because of bravery to protect Athens.
2) I think that the U.S. is the most or one of the most unique countries in the world, just as Pericles is trying to say about Athens is his speech. We have our own rules and live our own way helping whomever we can, which seems to be working for us the same way it worked for them. The U.S. military also works to risk their lives for us everyday just like in Athens. Another way our nations are similar is our ancestors being so important. We too, would never have gotten nearly as far along as we are today if our parents, their parents, and so on didn’t work to provide what we needed. Even though this speech happened a long time ago, to an extent the same thing would have been for the people in Athens.
3) Ultimately, he wants the people of Athens to remember why they are to be so greatful of the people that came before them and the ones lost in war. As he goes from paragraph to paragraph talking about each reason why their city should be so important to them, he is trying to remind them all of the fact that these brave people loved Athens and that is why they were special.
Pericles is asking each citizen to remember that each person who was dead from the war that day was a hero in their own right because of the love for his nation and his bravery.
Comment by Rachael D. — September 1, 2009 @ 09:23
Response 1- The basic ideas of Pericles’ speech are that someone’s worth is displayed in the deeds they do and not in the speech that was given. Also, that it is hard to convince your hearers that you tell the truth and not a lie because people choose not to believe things that they know they cannot do. Another idea is that government can lead to strength because if everyone is happy with the way things are then more people would want to fight and they would fight with more vigor than most others. The idea of a constitution that is unique and different from other countries is in the speech and also with the concept of democracy. The idea of luxury and entertainment for people to take part in is another one. A basic idea is that the city lives the way it wants to live and it does things that benefit the people who live in it and I think Pericles was really trying to get across that the people who died were trying to protect that. That is what I think the basic ideas are.
Response 2-One comparison to the modern day US and Athens is that we both have democracy and an equal standing of individuals. So, someone who is rich doesn’t get to choose who wins and someone who is poor gets to vote no matter how poor. Also, the constitution isn’t copied from anyother country and that both constitutions are unique in there own way. Also, both are similar in the military where people never shy away from danger and face it head on. Those are the main similarities I see in the US and Athens.
Response 3-Pericles is asking each citizen to go back out to the battlefield and not to feel afraid of what might happen. Also, I think he is asking them to not dwell in the past but look towards the future and to forget those who died so new people can fill their places. He asks them to honor those who died and not to say anything bad about them. That is what I think he is asking everyone to do.
Comment by Hayley H — September 1, 2009 @ 09:48
1. The first idea in this speech is how hard it is for one person to glorify the brave dead men, because when you make their actions seem great, the living become jealous. Pericles doesn’t think that one person can do that and that funeral speeches are unfair that way.
The second idea is Pericles praising the deceased soldiers for their bravery. He talks about the ancestors, but skips over the history of how Athens came to be what it was. He says that the focus should be on the “form of government under which greatness grew”. So he admires the dead by praising the city that the died for.
The third idea is Pericles glorifying Athens, talking about its greatness, and how everyone is equal and free because of the men who died to make it great. He also says that the living contribute to making it the amazing city that it was. He says that the dead were honored by “dying by resisting, rather than living by submitting.
The fourth and last idea is Pericles addressing the living. He comforts them and tells them that there is a standard set by the dead, and that they, the living, need to live up to it.
Comment by Declan P. — September 1, 2009 @ 18:03
#1 In Pericles’ Funeral Oration Pericles begins with honoring their ancestors because they were the ones who made the city the way it was. Continuing, the first part of the speech focuses on Athenians and their contribution to good citizens and the democratic government. He then discusses the freedoms, economic benefits, education and comparing these to Sparta. The second part is mainly on serving the common good and being good citizens individually. Which is followed by the common good of the military. Also, why Athenians are so willing to contribute Athens’ common good. Pericles mentions about desires and beliefs and the citizens’ pride, glory and honor in Athens. The third part of the speech focuses on freedom, on some views, requires that people not only aimlessly follow a certain way of life but autonomously choose it. He then follows with the last part of his speech. This part is about the importance of action and the importance of his speech. Then ends with the great war heroes of Athens who continue to be honored today.
#2 A similar comparison between the modern day U.S. is Athens’ democratic government. Under our freedom, as Americans, we have few legal restrictions on what we as citizens can and cant do, as did the Athenians. Examples would be that we have the freedom of speech and the freedom to watch whatever channel we want on TV and no one can dictate our decision. One of the few restrictions that we do have is the speed limit for a road or highway. Another similar comparison would also be about democracy. As did in Athens and now in the US each citizen has his or her own views on topics, points, and decisions. But when they are out voted then they must respect the decisions among the majority. Sort of like voting for President with the Republicans and the Democrats against each other, but only one can win.
A difference between Athens and modern day US is the matter of common good. In Athens, the citizens are free to pursue their own ends and freely choose to serve the common good. A reason that the Athens did this willingly is because other citizens expected to do this. The citizens who didn’t were known as “useless” said Pericles (2nd part of speech). Americans also have the freedom of common good, but some American citizens choose to ignore and neglect the common and somewhat taking advantage of the freedom.
#3 Pericles asks them many little tasks throughout his speech to do as citizens. At the intro of the Oration, he suggests that that anyone who pleases, to come and join the wailing women at the burial. As Pericles continues his speech, he wants the Athenian citizens to be part of the community. Either to serve or to just have some native spirit, even if you are ‘ordinary’. Also, he wanted them to be good citizens and to respect other citizens. Finishing his speech, Pericles ends with some last words, ”My task is now finished. I have performed it to the best of my ability, and in word, at least, the requirements of the law are now satisfied. If deeds be in question, those who are here interred have received part of their honours already, and for the rest, their children will be brought up till manhood at the public expense: the state thus offers a valuable prize, as the garland of victory in this race of valour, for the reward both of those who have fallen and their survivors. And where the rewards for merit are greatest, there are found the best citizens.” (Paragraph 19)
Comment by Kasey K. — September 2, 2009 @ 05:03
1. The basic ideas in Pericle’s Funeral Oration consist of the democratic constitution of the Athens, the Athenians living a happy life, freedom, education, and the common good of the people.
Pericles talks about the democracy a lot. In his opinion, a good political opinion helps lead to a happy life, another thing he discussed in his speech. In their democracy, everyone is equal under the law in their private lives and in their public lives, oppurtunity for equality is given.
Along with democracy, Pericles also disscuses freedom. He states that the legal restrictions of what the Athenians do are very few and that the citizens are very tolerant of what the other citizens elect to do. Since they have such few restrictions of the law, they are very free people but they also respect and tolerate each other.
Another point Pericles brings up is education. The education of the Athens focuses not so much on discipline, but more on freedom and nice, courageous habits.
One of the most commonly brought up points of the speech was the common good of the people. I think that the Athenians were very cautious about making sure that the things their government did was for the benefit of everyone. They thought that political disscussions were very imporant because they brought up a wider range of ideas to be considered when making political decisions. Anthenian citizens are so set on the common good of the people because it’s just kind of expected for them to focus on that. Those who choose not to focus on the common good of the people are often considered useless.
2. I think that this speech makes a lot of comparisons to the modern day United States, mainly that both of our governments were a democracy. Also, the fact that we are both free countries is a similarity. But in contrast to that, in their culture the laws of freedom only apply to the men, women and slaves were not free, which we know is very different from modern-day America.
Another similarity brought up is that the Athenians are willing to die in the service of the city. Many Americans are in the military, serving for our country well aware that they could die any day, but they’re willing to die while protecting our great nation.
Both the Athenians and the Americans have ceremonys when people die. Although theirs may be a little more extravagant than ours, they’re both ceremonys none the less.
One thing I noticed about the Athenians compared to the US is that the Athenians are much more dedicated to the common good of the people. In the US, I think the govenrment tries to act like they’re all for the common good, but clearly it turns our differently. And not just the government is to blame, I think the citizens of the United States are more selfish and more conserned about themselves than anyone else.
3. I think that Pericles is asking each Athenian citizen just to listen to what he is saying. He wants them to remember to praise their ancestors. And he wants them to always respect one another and at least try to tolerate the actions of the other citizens. He’s asking them to always remember those who had fallen fighting for their city. And finally he is asking them to take the inciative to not only listen to what he said, but to go somewhere with his ideas.
Comment by Sammy S — September 2, 2009 @ 19:34
1. Summarize the basic ideas. You may use any resources you find. There are many points that Pericle touches on but some are more important and more frequently used than others did. One of those is they live the way they want but are ready to change for emergency. This means that an Athenian can live a laid-back lifestyle but can be ready for an emergency very quickly. Another point was with poverty, they admit to it but decline the struggle. Pericle declared, “If the Athenians find an event they can’t solve they do not take it as a hardship but as a step towards wise action.” This means that if The Athenians are faced with a hardship, they don’t back down, they face it in hopes that they will solve it and that will make them better. A very important point in the remembering of the fallen solders was the people that know hardship from danger are never to shrink away from battle. Pericle stated, “Such is the Athens for which these men, in the assertion of their resolve not to lose her, nobly fought and died; and well may every one of their survivors be ready to suffer in her cause. Their men fight like no other.” Also, “but through all his hardships never made him back down from battle.” This told me that the Athenian men had no fear when they went into battle. They fought without any fear of what might happen but only with the thought of winning. In addition, the Athenians were men of good honor and humbleness. Pericle said, “His merit as a citizen outweighs his indivudialness. His good actions cover up his bad.” This says that even though they may have had their faults their good characteristics made up for that and then some making them good citizens. The final main point I found was when Pericle told the people, “Numberless are the chances to which, as they know, the life of man is subject; but fortunate indeed are they who draw for their lot a death so glorious as that which has caused your mourning, and to whom life has been so exactly measured as to terminate in the happiness in which it has been passed.” This means that even that these men are dead this is such an honor to die in the manner that they did, in battle.
2. What comparisons to the modern day United States of America can you make using this speech? One comparison is men will get envious if they hear great things of other men and try to make them selves sound better. According to Pericles speech that is what happened to men back in his time. If they heard great things about one man, they would get envious and say things about their accomplishments but exaggerate these achievements to make them sound better. Also, Pericle stated, their constitution was their own not based on anybody else’s. That is the same as the United States. There is no other constitution in the world like ours. All their laws were equal. All of our laws are equal too. In the Constitution, The Bill of Rights, and The Amendments they are all equal. Against the fear of the punishment of breaking the law people still break the customs. That is the same as in the present day United States. There are those unwritten laws such as doing what is wrong and what is right, like being truthful and not cheating on a test. Those are not laws written the constitution but they are conventions that everybody should follow. When Pericle said, he had comfort to offer to the mourning families that is another similarity to The United States. When a loved one of someone we know dies, we give him or her comfort through the rough times. If our own loved one dies, we receive comfort. I found those similarities between the United States and this speech.
3. What is Pericles asking of each Athenian citizen? He is asking them to praise our ancestors for passing down their traditions. In addition, the survivors must have an unfaltering resolution in the field. They have to realize the power of Athens, “and feed their eyes upon Athena from day to day, until the love of her fills their hearts.” Then, when all her love and greatness comes upon them, they must know that it was by courage, sense of duty, and a keen feeling of honor in action that the men were enabled to win all of this. Pericle tells the people to take the men who died as your model and, never decline the dangers of war. “While those of you who have passed your prime must congratulate yourselves with the thought that the best part of your life was fortunate, and that the brief span that remains will be cheered by the fame of the departed.”
Comment by Dustin D — September 3, 2009 @ 05:54
Pericles: 1. Summarize the basic ideas. You may use any resources you find.
The basic ideas of Pericles’ funeral oration are to honor the dead, the democratic constitution helps the citizens on Athens, and the constitution leads citizens to serve Athens.
2. What comparisons to the modern day United States of America can you make using this speech?
The Athenians thought a good political community is one in which citizens live a happy, fulfilled life. This is the same in America today.
The Athenians made life free and easy for their citizens. America tries to do this also.
In private life, everyone is equal before the laws.
In public life, equality of opportunity is found, and they allow the city-state to draw upon the talents of all the citizens. There are very little legal restrictions. This is the same except we probably have more laws than they do.
There are ways to refresh the people’s mind from business. We have the same thing. We can go to various sports events, concerts, plays, and other things. It can be very easy to get your mind off of business
3. What is Pericles asking of each Athenian citizen?
Pericles is asking each Athenian citizen to be proud of their country and to stand up for their country at all costs. He says that since their country is so great they should be willing to protect it.
Comment by Brandon vK — September 3, 2009 @ 10:03
2. There are many comparisons in Pericles’ Funeral Oration to the modern United States. One of them is how Pericles discusses his and Athens’ ancestors, and how they made Athens into what it was, and went through a lot of trouble to acquire it and have it ready for their descendants. The comparison is that the modern United States’ founding fathers did the same thing. Also, Pericles explains his people’s constitution, and how it mens everyone is free, and deserves equal justice. He also explains how a democracy favors “the many over the few”. All this exactly matches the modern United States’ government type and constitutional principles.
Pericles also talks about Athens having a very strong military. This is just like today’s United States military, which is one of the strongest in the world.
These are some of the many comparisons from Pericles’ Funeral Oration to the modern United States.
Comment by Declan P. — September 3, 2009 @ 10:37
3. What Pericles is asking of each Athenian citizen is to, as he says, “you must determine to have as unfaltering a resolution in the field, though you may pray that it may have a happier issue.” This means that the living Athenians have to live up to the reputation, courage, and valor of the dead Athenians that, as Pericles says, “laid it at her feet as the most glorious contribution that they could offer.” He is talking about them dying for their city, and implies that in order for the living to honor the dead soldier’s sacrifice, they must do the same (fight with everything they have, and maybe even die), without hesitation, if it was ever needed. That is what Pericles is asking of the Athenians.
Comment by Declan P. — September 3, 2009 @ 12:23
Pericles’ Funeral Oratoin
1. The speech was taking place at a funeral for the men that died in a war. Families and friends were all there. The speech was to help the people remember these and to remember that they did not die in vain. It was basically a blessing over the bodies before they were burried.
2. Pericles reminds me of Patrick Henry as an orator. Just because this speech and Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death” speech are alike. I also think that both countries (Athens and the U.S.) are democratic as I sensed in the speech.
3. Pericles was telling all of the Athenians to remember these men. And he told them to go out and fight back to ensure that these men did not die in vain. Here is that part: “You, their survivors, must determine to have as unfaltering a resolution in the field, though you may pray that it may have a happier issue. And not contented with ideas derived only from words of the advantages which are bound up with the defence of your country, though these would furnish a valuable text to a speaker even before an audience so alive to them as the present, you must yourselves realize the power of Athens, and feed your eyes upon her from day to day, till love of her fills your hearts; and then, when all her greatness shall break upon you, you must reflect that it was by courage, sense of duty, and a keen feeling of honour in action that men were enabled to win all this, and that no personal failure in an enterprise could make them consent to deprive their country of their valour, but they laid it at her feet as the most glorious contribution that they could offer.”
Comment by Matthew B. — September 3, 2009 @ 13:47
1. In 431 B.C. a citizen of Athens, Pericle, was chosen by the state, because he is wise and has a good reputation, to make a speech for all the soldiers who died in war. This is a tradition to all Athenians. First it explains how the soldiers are laid in black coffins in the public sepulchre three days before the speech is made. The relatives and friends come and pay their respects. Three days later Pericle comes to give his speech. He first explains how great of a place Athens is. Pericle next explains this is why so many citizens of all different kinds risk life, to fight for their city, Athens. Then he talks about how brave and great the soldiers are to fight for their city. Pericle then goes on about how all citizens should praise and be thankful for their warriors who helped keep Athens a great place.
2. In the speech I saw some similarities between Athens and the present day United States. Some were, the way that Athens honors their soldiers is the same we honor ours. Also Athens was a democracy like the present United states. Athens also allows immigrants to come in and get a job and live in their city, so does the US. They have equal rights to all the people, and the laws should be obeyed. Both Athens and the United States have a powerful military.
3. When Pericle gave his famous speech he was asking some things from the citizens of Athens. First he was asking all Athenians to realize that the soldiers are the reason why their city is still a great place. Also he is asking them to never decline the dangers of war and to always be willing to fight for their city like the brave warriors who fought for them.
Comment by Ellie O. — September 3, 2009 @ 16:11
1. Pericles’ Funeral Oration is a speech Pericles gave at the funeral of the soldiers who died in a war. The speech was about how great the Greek Empire was and how the families of the soldiers should be proud of them. He praises their ancestors for the sacrifices that they made in order to establish democracy in Greece. He also talks about how great and diverse democracy is because people can express their opinions. Pericles also talks about how powerful their army is even when faced with multiple enemies.
2. The Modern United States and Ancient Greece have many things in common. They are both democratic governments. Their armies have also defeated multiple enemies. They also both play a large part in the international trade market during their times.
3. Pericles asks the Athenians to be proud of the soldiers that fell during the war. He wants them to remember the solders for the great sacrifices they made to protect Athens. He also asked them to teach their children to be brave soldiers just like their ancestors.
Comment by Kathryn H.D. — September 3, 2009 @ 18:31
1. The basic ideas for Pericles’ Funeral Oration is that Pericles is praising and remembering the soldiers that had died so far in the war. He also feels that in order to praise the dead, he needs to also glorify the city that they died for. Pericles discusses Athen’s past, how the city got to where they are now, and the form of government that has made the greatness of Athen’s grow. Another basic idea is that Athens is a democracy and their city has their own individual laws, and they don’t copy off of other city’s laws. Also, a basic idea is that each citizen is allowed to live as they want to and that every citizen has their own plans to attend to, meaning they have freedom and are free to do as they please. Lastly, Pericles explains that Athenians truly are good citizens because they are striving for the greater good of Athens, not because they have to, but because they want to. This means that the Athenians choose and want to obey the laws to make their city proud.
2. In Pericles’ Funeral Oration, I found a comparison to the modern day U.S. when Pericles states, “If we look to the laws, they afford equal justice to all in their private differences…if a man is able to serve the state, he is not hindered by the obscurity of his condition. The freedom which we enjoy in our government extends also to our ordinary life. There, far from exercising a jealous surveilllance over each other, we do not feel called upon to be angry with our neighbour for doing what he likes,”. These sentences showed that Athens, like the U.S. has equality under the law. Another modern day comparison I see in this speech is that Athens has a democracy and is very dedicated to it, just like the U.S. is dedicated to its democracy.
3. Pericles is asking of each Athenian citizen to fight, or even die for, Athens. He wants each citizen to be devoted to Athens. Also, Pericles is asking each citizen to support the children of the dead to honor the fallen soldiers for their bravery in the war. Antoher thing Pericles is asking of each Athenian citizen in Pericles’ Funeral Oration is to make necessary sacrifices for his or her community.
Comment by Katie B — September 4, 2009 @ 06:33
1. Summarize the basic ideas. You may use any resources you find.
Pericles discusses the glory of Athens and the vanity of the Athenians. It’s a culture that glorifies men; people attempt to find meaning through the creation of manmade institutions like the Athenian city-state. Pericles is making people feel good about them self and takes the emotion of patriotism. Then he starts talking about the honor it is to be a dead soldier and what you have gained. He is talking about how men are nobly fought and nobly died. He wanted to make it clear that there is much more at stake here than people realize. He pointed out that some men had there faults, but redeemed themselves and done a service to make them heroes.
Pericles expressed about the past of the Athens, and about how there ancestors shaped today. There ancestors guided them to do all of those activities, and they still do it. The speech was a custom passed on and the tradition will continue.
2. What comparisons to the modern day United States of America can you make using this speech?
During Pericles’ time any service performed for the good of the state was noble, and any man, no matter their past, could become a hero by dying in battle. It doesn’t matter what you have done previously you can still be noble by dying in battle. In the United States of America if you do a crime it is not as easily forgiven even if you do die in battle. This is the equivalent of saying that if Sahel Kazemi, who murdered Steve McNair, retired Tennessee Titans quarterback, the army and died in Iraq. She would be disburdened from her crimes. It’s strange that Greek humanists would commonly accept this, but Americans wouldn’t.
Also, the Athenians govern by democracy. The United States of America also relies on democracy to run our government. The only difference is that the Athens’ democracy only involves men. In America, both man and woman can be involved with democracy.
3. What is Pericles asking of each Athenian citizen?
The Athenians liked to believe they were the noblest people in Greece, and by affirming this belief, Pericles engages himself to his audience while demanding that they sacrifice their individuality and happiness to the state. Pericles persuaded the Greeks that the city of Athens must be defended at all costs by exploring the glory of the city’s culture and government, and by demanding further, and greater, sacrifice from the Athenians.
Comment by Carla W. — September 4, 2009 @ 07:43
1. Pericles begins his speech by praising the custom of the public funeral held for the people that died in the war, but he also criticizes the purpose of the speech saying that the “reputations of many brave men” should “not be imperiled in the mouth of a single individual”. He explains that the speaker of the oration has to satisfy the people who died during the war by magnifying what they have done without allowing the audience to become jealous or suspect exaggeration.
Later in the speech Pericles praises the dead, not by discussing Athens’ past ancestors’ achievements, but by glorifying the city they died for. He then goes on to talk about the greatness of Athens and praise the dead Athenians. He explains that only the heroism of these people and others like them have made the city so great.
He then advises the audience to live up to the standards that were set by the deceased.”So died these men as becomes Athenians. You, their survivors, must determine as unaltering a resolution in the field, though you may pray that it have a happier outcome.
Pericles speech is ended with a short epilogue. He reminds the audience of the difficulty of speaking over the dead.
2. By reading Pericles’ speech, you see that the United States uses history to form our government. In the speech, Pericles talks about Athens having a democracy. Somebody had to be chosen to read a speech for the funeral and the Athenian citizens voted. This shows that the people are involved in ruling the government and they are able to make their own decisions about how they want to be governed.
Athens has a justice system and the government creates laws for the people to follow. They have a constitution, just like the United States. The people make sure that their country isn’t a follower, but instead a leader. They rule their city the way they think is best instead of doing what everyone else is.
The Athenians also have individual freedom. They are allowed to do what they want as long as it doesn’t break any of the laws. The Unites States is the same way. I can easily say or do anything i want as long as I’m not endangering anybody around me. When the people do put others in danger, there are consequences that they have to face.
3. Pericles asks each Athenian citizen to live up to the standards that were set by the people that died in the Peloponessian War.
Comment by Heather G. — September 5, 2009 @ 09:30
1. Summarize the basic ideas. You may use any resources you find.
Any person who has lived in Athens has helped build upon the foundation that their ancestors layed down many years ago. The city is unique and does not copy its ways or law from the other cities. Most of the residents of this city try to be fair, not judgmental and try to always see things from a positive point of view. Although each Athenian may have their own imperfections, the greatness of the city as a whole hides the individual’s flaws. They are very fortunate and it is hard to beat the lifestyle of the Athenian, and while the city is diverse, they can still live together as one.
Athens is strong and does not back down from things, and their military is powerful and plentiful and tries to overcome any boundaries it might come across. Though many were lost in the war, they were true Athenians, and their survivors must realize the city is still powerful and they need to keep it strong. The sepulchre holding the fallen soldiers bones is not solely for that reason, but so that the people remember that the soldiers may have fallen, yet they fell so that the city and its people would remain standing.
The relatives of those slain in war are mourning because they lost something they loved dearly; however all of the soldiers die a phenomenal death for an even greater cause. The families and close friends of the fallen have a hard task before them, and they will deeply miss their loved ones, but they need to be proud of their men and the amazing things they accomplished before meeting their fate. While many have fallen and will be deeply missed, the Athenians need to remember that they did not fall in vain.
Pericles was chosen to give this speech and he did a very fine job. He comforted those who were mourning over a lost loved one. He gave respect to every soldier, whether they survived the war, or was slain during it. Most importantly, he reassured everyone that Athens would remain strong and powerful. He was given an opportunity and not only did he take it, he did it to the best of his ability and achieved above and beyond of what anyone expected.
2. What comparisons to the modern United States of America can you make using this speech?
Although Athens is nearly half way around the world and this speech Pericles’ Funeral Oration was given nearly two and a half millenniums ago, it still has similarities with America today. Alike with the ceremony at which Pericles’ gave his speech, many military ceremonies in the United States are packed with morning friends and families and some of the same rituals that take place in the funeral after the Peloponnesian War still occur at some ceremonies in America.
Just as Pericles’ was chosen to give a speech, at many military funeral ceremonies in the United States, an important person is chosen to do the same in honor of those who gave their lives in war. Whether the speaker is a surviving war hero, or the president of America, the person giving the speech has been chosen for a good reason. The people who chose this individual believe in him and trust that he will give a good respectful speech to the military, and a reassuring word to those who lost a loved one.
I believe that if someone who was at the funeral in 431 BC met with someone who went to a funeral in America today, they would realize that they are experiencing similar feelings of loss and depression. They would be able to relate to what has happened even though it was two completely different times and they are from different sides of the world. Although it would be two completely different people, their emotions would be almost the same because no matter whom it is and how emotionally strong they are, losing someone you love is still devastating.
Pericles was given the opportunity to give a speech to all of Athens and he took it and did a phenomenal job both honoring those who fell and the other men who took part in the war, and reassuring those who felt that Athens was crumbling around them. Although the speech is not extensive, you can still find out quite a lot from a little about the city of Athens and realize that it is quite alike with the modern United States of America.
3. What is Pericles’ asking of each Athenian citizen?
Pericles is asking each Athenian to respect the people who built their city up. Whether it is the military, or one’s own ancestors, anyone who has helped Athens in the least bit by being a woman at the bakery, or someone who is putting their life at stake daily by being a firefighter both deserve an equal amount of honor and respect. The city has grown to be strong and unified and although they have just suffered a great loss everyone who still lives must continue to help build it up and make it become more powerful.
While many Athenians felt like they were living on a crumbling rock, Pericles challenged them to strive to see how strong they really are, like a firm foundation. The families and close friends of those who fell might be in depression, but really they should be taking pride in the fact that their loved ones died a great, purposeful death. They sacrificed their lives for what they believed in and while the city can’t see it now, it will bring rewards. Those who are morning should rejoice in what great acts of heroism the close friends and family members have done. Instead of thinking about how much they have lost, the need to focus on how supportive and powerful Athens would be for them to help them through the hard times.
The brave men who fought in the war did not back down from danger or risks, and Pericles asks the rest of Athens to do the same. He wants them to look life in the face and make the most of it, and while doing that, their city will become revived and ready to take on anything that comes at it. They should be unwavering in their commitment to Athens and strive to make it more powerful and steadfast.
Pericles is not asking much of the Athenians, but the few things that he is asking are easy tasks and will benefit Athens and its people. He wants everyone to remember the soldiers and remember why they were fighting. They should remember that Athens is strong and powerful and it will remain that way. Most of all, they should remember what they need to do to rebuild Athens and make it a better place.
Comment by Kellyn M — September 5, 2009 @ 14:05
Pericles’ Funeral Oration
1. In 431, Pericles’ gave his famous funereral oration after the Peloponnesian War had started against the Spartans. In his funeral oration, Pericles’ talks a lot about respecting and remembering the people that had died for Athens to survive. He states that it is the law to honor and appreciate these soldiers that have died for the citizens of Athens. He then goes into how the democratic constitution will benefit the Athenians, and how it will help them live better, free lives. He puts in that their country’s laws do not copy neighboring countries, but sets an example for them. Pericles goes into how freedom lets citizens do almost whatever they like. Also, he talks about how all Athenians should love their country more than anything, and should be willing to sacrifice their life for it at any given moment. Citizens are not forced to obey the laws of Athens, but do it because they want to. They became the new ideal of the greek world.
2. Some comparisons that Pericles’ Funeral Oration has to the present day United States are the way they honor their soldiers. Like Athens, we appreciate our veterans by setting aside days to thank and notice what they’ve done for our country. Also, like Athens, we have a strong army, willing to fight for the United States. Another similarity is that we both are democracys, and have the same type of government where the people rule. We both have set laws that the citizens of each country abide by. Like the U.S., Athens is open to all immagrants that want to join their country, and treat everyone equaly and fair.
3. Pericles is asking the citizens of Athens to overall love everything about their counrty. He wanted them to be proud of Athen’s history and everyone who had given their lives for their country. He said they should respect and honor the soldiers. He also wanted them to not be afraid of dying for their country, and said to never decline the dangers of war. He also asks them to obey all the laws for Athens, and to contribute to the greater good of their country.
Comment by Natalie S — September 5, 2009 @ 21:07
1. The basic ideas of Pericles’ Funeral Oration: respect of dead (p.1&5) Praise of ancestors (p.2) Open arms towards foreigners (p.3) Equal rights for everyone (p.3) Greatness of Athens (p.3) Honor of fallen (p.5-7)
2. Comparisons of Pericles’ Funeral Oration to modern U.S. In the modern U.S. are country is open to any foreigners as long as the meet legal standards i.e. (not carrying diseases, not a terrorist, ext.) Also the U.S. honors the dead with proper burials and ceremonies. We also respect our ancestors by building statues and monuments in their honor. We also have equal rights for all legal citizens. We honor the fallen of war with special graves and ceremonies for just the fallen of war who are always regarded as heroes.
3. Pericles is asking that every Athenian pay there respects to those that have died and the family’s of the deceased. And that they should honor them. And to teach them that these men have not died in vain.
Comment by Michael S — September 6, 2009 @ 05:40
1. In his speech, Pericles wants to honor those that died defending Athens. He talks about how great Athens and those that live there have become. He tells us of the glory of Athens. His speech makes all Athenians very proud. He tells them that those who died, did so for Athens and its honor.
2. To compare this speech to modern day, it would be very difficult without some disaster or attack on our country to get Americans to feel the pride Athenians were feeling after Pericles’ speech. If President Obama were to attempt a similar speech with regard to the War on Terrorism, the media and those against the war would not be supportive. When Pericles made this speech to the Athenians, he succeeded and gained the support of Athenians.
3. Pericles’ challenges each of the Athenian citizen to find a way to connect with these values that make Athens strong. In remembering those that have given their lives for Athens’ greatness, he urges all to focus on being a citizen rather than being an individual. He says, “it is the love of honour that never grows old” as a reminder to all that they should honor those that had died fighting for Athens. He wants those who can to have more children to help forget those who have been lost but also to help Athens have reinforcements and security in the future. Pericles wants the Athenians to put Athens and its future as their number one priority.
Comment by Kelsey K — September 6, 2009 @ 08:23
1. Summarize the basic ideas.
-Democracy is extremely important. According to the Athenians, an overall good community is a democratic society where each citizen can live a good, happy life.
-Freedom is a big part of Pericles’ Funeral Oration Speech. The legal restrictions on what Athenian citizens must do are very few.
-Another one of Pericles’ points in his speech was to appreciate and love all the beautiful things found in the Athenian culture.
-Also, a huge part of the speech was celebrating the fallen heros. Pericles’ strongly believed that all Athenian citizens should honor and truly appreciate all of the soldiers that gave their lives for the citizens to be happy.
2. Both Pericles’ speech and the modern day U.S. promote democracy. In his speech, Pericles was expressing to the citizens that everyone should be equal, and the people should have a part in decision making. It is much like that today, where everyone is mostly treated equally, and big decisions, such as electing president, are made by voting of the people.
Another similarity between the modern day U.S. and Pericles’ speech is both are celebrating fallen heros. Pericles was asking each citizen to honor everyone who died for them, everyone who gave their lives for the better good of each and every citizen. Today, we continue to honor and appreciate all the courageous soldiers who have died fighting for us. Also during Pericles speech and today, we were and are at war.
The last thing is Pericles gave his speech once a year. And we celebrate our independence and all of the brave fallen soldiers once a year with holidays such as Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day.
3. I believe that there are four important things Pericles is asking each Athenian citizen.
First, he is asking to always remember thos fallen before us. To always honor the men and women who have died for our country. Next, he is asking to be a model citizen for others. To always do whar is right and show others what is right.
Then, Pericles is asking for the citizens to have more children so Athens can grow and become a stronger community.
Last, we have a responsibility to continue what our ancestors have died for and done to help us.
Comment by Taylor P. — September 6, 2009 @ 09:53
Pericles #1
I think the basic ideas of the speech is that Pericles gives an annual public funeral for the Athenian citizens who have gone down fighting for their country. He gives an emotional speech each year honoring the brave Athenians who have given their lives for their democracy. There is always a big gathering at the funeral because there are more lives lost each year and the villagers respect and honor those who have fought for their freedom.
Pericles #2
I can compare Pericles’ speech to modern day society and the Iraq war. Pericles is commemorating those who had sacrificed their lives to protect their country and protect the freedom of its people. He speaks of the soldiers so committed to their country that they “choose to die resisting, rather than live submitting.” It is the same situation we are in today. The comparisons are that we are still at war; we still have people dying for our country. When Pericles wrote this speech, the Athenian government was a democracy just as ours is too.
Pericles #3
I feel that Pericles is asking the families and citizens of Athens not to feel down, sad or miserable for their deceased loved ones, but rather feel honored and proud of them. He says to remember that it is “by courage, sense of duty and a keen feeling of honour in action that men were enabled to win all this.” If you think about it, I am sure you would rather die honoring your friends, family and country rather than die without fulfilling a greater purpose.
Comment by Chandler K — September 6, 2009 @ 20:01
1. I believe one of the main reasons pericles gave this speech was to sort of, “rally the troops,” so to speak. He said it to illustrate Atheinian power and rule. Pericles begins by assuring the crowd that the speech shouldn’t, and will not be about Pericles himself. It is to be about the courage of the Athenian soldiers and their sacrifice. After that, he swiftly transitions to praising the Athenian founding fathers and praises them for their unique government at a time where democracy was an example government to other civilizations. After this, he talks about the Athenian lifestyle, which is also unique because unlike a communistic society, they have rewards for fairness and good deeds. Also, he says that the rich and poor are equal in reward and punishment. He then continues to talk about Athenian lifestyle, and he says that instead of rigorous work all the time, the Athenians enjoy life. Then Pericles states that because of this balanced lifestyle they have gained allies to help them defeat the spartans. After he had instilled a feeling of national pride into his listeners, he claims that he has spoken of the previous greatness and success to remind the listeners of why their loved ones are fighting. By saying this, he has transformed the dead soldiers into fighting to preserve the Athenian lifestyle itself, instead of fighting to win the war. The end of the speech is a call to duty. The people are told to carry on with life as best they can, and the brothers of dead soldiers are encouraged to carry on the fight. To complete the speech, Pericles states an epilogue, when he reminds those listening how difficult it is to speak over the dead. In the end, Pericles brilliantly turned the speech from just remembering the dead, to a call to continue the war until an ultimate victory is accomplished.
2. There are many comparisons to modern day United States. One of these comparisons is that modern US citizens are not all working for the greater good of the country, but Atenian citizens back then were working to better themselves as a whole. Also a comparison between the speech and modern US is that during his speech, he had many listeners who truley cared and looked to him to tell them what to do, if the president told USA citizens what to do, most likely only 3/4 would do it and others who didn’t care or were rebellious wouldn’t even pay attention. The final comparison I could think of was that in the speech, he spoke to the listeners about continueing the war, even though the odds were against them, and the Athenians did just that. in modern day USA, there would have been many disagreements and people would have wanted to end the war, just like with the war on terron in Iraq. Back then, the people trusted Pericles and gave him respect and did as they were told.
3. It was very clear what Pericles was asking of each Athenian citizen. He asked the citizens to go back to their lives as normal if they were greiveing the loss of a loved one. Also, he asked the sons and brothers of soldiers who had died in the war to join the fight themselves and help the Athenian army defeat the powerful Spartans. The main thing he asked of the citizens was to remain calm and do their daily jobs as normal and remain a role model society under unique circumstances.
Comment by matt d. — September 6, 2009 @ 23:18
Bradley Covington
Selection 1: Pericles’ Funeral Oration
1.) One of the basic ideas is mentioned in the beginning of the speech where Pericles explains that the “reputations of many brave men” should “not be imperiled in the mouth of a single individual” The basic idea is that as the speaker of the oration, he is given the impossible task of satisfying the associates of the dead, who would want their deeds to be magnified, while everyone else might feel envious and presume exaggeration. Then Pericles skips over the great martial achievements of Athens’ past: “That part of our history which tells of the military achievements which gave us our several possessions, or of the ready valor with which either we or our fathers stemmed the tide of Hellenic or foreign aggression, is a theme too familiar to my hearers for me to dwell upon, and I shall therefore pass it by.” The basic idea is the great achievements of Athens were very important and he wanted to remind the audience of them. However, instead, he focuses on “the road by which we reached our position, the form of government under which our greatness grew, and the national habits out of which it sprang”. This is the basic idea that they should look at how they got to where they are and that they should continue to go in that direction. Then Pericles moves to the idea of “equal justice under law”. “If we look to the laws, they afford equal justice to all in their private differences…if a man is able to serve the state, he is not hindered by the obscurity of his condition. The freedom we enjoy in our government extends also to our ordinary life. There, far from exercising a jealous surveillance over each other, we do not feel called upon to be angry with our neighbour for doing what he likes…” The idea that Pericles is trying 2 explain is that all people whether they work for the government or not, should get equal justice. Then the content of his speech turns towards Athens’ foreign policy: “We throw open our city to the world, and never by alien acts exclude foreigners from any opportunity of learning or observing, although the eyes of an enemy may occasionally profit by our liberality…” He is explaining the idea that all people whether they are foreign or not should get the same opportunities. Pericles then turns to the audience, “So died these men as becomes Athenians. You, their survivors, must determine to have as unfaltering a resolution in the field, though you may pray that it may have a happier outcome.” The idea that Pericles is trying to explain is that the Athenian people need to live up to the standards set by the slain.
2.) This speech can definitely relate to the modern day United States of America. Some of the ideas Pericles mentioned in the speech are actually used in the United States. For example, when he talks about equal justice under law that applies in the U.S. as well. Also, in the United States, we honor our fallen soldiers with speeches given just as Pericles did. We bury our dead soldiers in special ways just as the Athenians did and in the United States, we also focus on, “the road by which we reached our position, the form of government under which our greatness grew, and the national habits out of which it sprang” just as Pericles wants the Athenian people to do this.
3.) Pericles is asking that each Athenian citizen to live up to the standards set by the deceased, “So died these men as becomes Athenians. You, their survivors, must determine to have as unfaltering a resolution in the field, though you may pray that it may have a happier issue.” He wants the Athenian people to carry on the tradition of fighting for what they believe in. Pericles is asking them to be brave just as their ancestors have even though they would all rather it have a better result. Pericles is also asking the Athenian citizens to carry out the lifestyle they have lived and for that to never change.
Comment by Bradley C — September 8, 2009 @ 17:44