Final answer:
Pericles' success in Athenian politics was due largely to his skill in rhetoric, which is evident in his speeches that promoted democracy, economic reforms, and the superiority of Athenian government.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pericles and the Power of Rhetoric
Pericles was a master of rhetoric, his success as a Greek statesman, orator, and general during the Athenian Golden Age can be attributed to his exceptional rhetorical skills. The democratic system in Athens greatly valued public speaking, as evident from the system set up by Cleisthenes, where the citizens' assembly and the election of generals heavily relied on persuasive argumentation. Pericles' speeches, as chronicled by Thucydides, reveal much about his character and his ability to employ ethos, logos, and pathos—the core elements of rhetoric as defined by Aristotle. In his speeches, he often linked freedom to success, persuaded Athenians of their government's superiority, and outlined why Athens was worth defending against external threats.
Three main points from Pericles' speeches in Thucydides' works include:
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- The promotion of democratic principles and inclusion of the less wealthy in governance, allowing a broader participation in the Athenian democracy.
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- The economic reforms like the misthophoria, which provided salaries to jurors, helping to foster a more accessible and functional civic system.
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- His belief in the uniqueness and superiority of Athenian democracy over other forms of government, instilling a sense of pride and duty in his fellow citizens.
These speeches allow us to see Pericles' strategic use of persuasion to strengthen the Athenian state and culture. As a leader, he not only guided Athens through prosperity but also ensured his city-state's democratic values were upheld and celebrated. His legacy continues to influence modern discussions on governance and public speaking.