Final answer:
Pericles' character reflects the Platonic and Socratic concepts of soul and wisdom, suggesting his ethos was shaped by the pursuit of higher knowledge and virtue. His actions as an influential Athenian leader exhibit the philosophical ideals of moral and intellectual development.
Step-by-step explanation:
To understand Pericles' character (ethos), one must consider the social and intellectual milieu of Ancient Greece and the philosophers who influenced his thinking, primarily Plato and Socrates. Pericles can be seen as embodying the Platonic ideal of a philosopher-king, a leader who combines practical governance with a deep understanding of philosophical principles. His character was likely influenced by Socratic and Platonic concepts of the soul (psyche), emphasizing the importance of wisdom, virtue, and the nurturing of one's soul above all else.
Plato's concept of the soul, as discussed in works like Phaedo, suggests that the soul is inherently rational and seeks to understand reality by separating itself from bodily distractions. This viewpoint is echoed in Socrates's mission of guiding others towards virtue and wisdom by looking inward and caring for the soul. Pericles' characteristics—as the reformer who extended democratic involvement and engaged in the cultivation of Athens' culture—mirror these philosophical teachings, suggesting his ethos was shaped by the belief in the soul's pursuit of higher knowledge and communal well-being.
In the context of Plutarch's framework of the soul, which was built upon these earlier philosophies, we can deduce that Pericles' character development was aligned with this emphasis on intellectual and moral growth. The Athenian leader's actions and policies sought to align with the ethical and rational ideals revered by the philosophers, ensuring that he remained true to these principles throughout his rule. Therefore, we can credit both Plato's and Socrates's philosophies as foundational to the shaping of Pericles' ethos and, by extension, his enduring legacy as Athens' most influential statesman during its Golden Age.