According To Pericles What Made Athens Great

The echoes of ancient Athens resonate even today, inspiring democracies and shaping our understanding of civic life. But what truly defined the greatness of this ancient city? To understand that, we must turn to one of its most influential leaders: Pericles. His speeches, immortalized by the historian Thucydides, offer a profound insight into the values, institutions, and cultural achievements that, in Pericles's view, elevated Athens to its zenith. These insights are not just historical curiosities; they provide a timeless framework for understanding the ingredients of a thriving and exceptional society.

Pericles, a statesman and general who led Athens during its Golden Age (roughly 461 to 429 BC), articulated a vision of Athenian exceptionalism rooted in its democratic principles, its commitment to intellectual and artistic pursuits, and its dedication to public service. According to Pericles, Athens's greatness was not merely a matter of military might or economic prosperity, but rather a consequence of the city's unique ability to cultivate well-rounded citizens who actively participated in public life and contributed to the common good.

This article will delve into the key elements that, according to Pericles, contributed to Athens's greatness. We will explore his views on democracy, individual freedom, intellectual and artistic endeavors, military prowess, and civic responsibility, drawing upon his famous Funeral Oration and other sources to understand the core tenets of his philosophy.

The Cornerstone: Athenian Democracy

At the heart of Pericles's vision of Athenian greatness lies its radical democracy. In his Funeral Oration, delivered in honor of soldiers who had fallen in the Peloponnesian War, Pericles extols the virtues of Athens's democratic system, contrasting it with the more authoritarian regimes of its rivals, particularly Sparta.

"Our constitution is called a democracy because power is in the hands not of a minority but of the whole people," Pericles declares. This statement encapsulates the fundamental principle of Athenian democracy: isonomia, or equality before the law, and isegoria, the right of every citizen to speak and participate in the Assembly.

Unlike many societies, where power was concentrated in the hands of a select few, Athens empowered its citizens – adult male citizens, to be precise – to directly participate in the political process. The Assembly, the central organ of Athenian democracy, was open to all citizens, who could debate, propose laws, and vote on matters of public policy. This direct participation fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among the citizens, encouraging them to take an active interest in the affairs of the city.

Pericles emphasized that Athenian democracy was not simply a matter of majority rule but also a system that respected individual rights and freedoms. He highlights that while laws were upheld and respected, there was also a spirit of tolerance and openness to different viewpoints. This freedom of expression and intellectual exchange fostered innovation and creativity, contributing to Athens's vibrant cultural scene.

The democratic system in Athens was designed to promote the common good. Citizens were expected to participate in public life not for personal gain but out of a sense of civic duty. This emphasis on public service fostered a sense of collective responsibility and encouraged citizens to work together to achieve common goals. Pericles believed that this commitment to the common good was essential for the success and prosperity of Athens.

Freedom and Individual Excellence

Closely intertwined with Athenian democracy was a deep respect for individual freedom and the pursuit of personal excellence. Pericles believed that a society that valued individual autonomy and provided opportunities for personal growth would inevitably flourish.

In his Funeral Oration, Pericles contrasts Athenian society with that of Sparta, where individual freedom was severely restricted in the name of military discipline and collective conformity. He argues that Athenians were free to live their lives as they pleased, without being subjected to constant scrutiny or forced to adhere to rigid social norms.

"We do not get angry with our neighbor for following his own pleasure, nor put on sour looks which, though harmless, are painful to bear," Pericles observes. This tolerance and acceptance of individual differences fostered a spirit of experimentation and innovation, encouraging citizens to pursue their passions and develop their talents to the fullest.

Athenians believed that a well-rounded citizen was one who cultivated not only their physical and intellectual abilities but also their moral character. They emphasized the importance of arete, a concept that encompasses excellence, virtue, and moral integrity. Athenians believed that the pursuit of arete was essential for both personal fulfillment and the well-being of society.

The emphasis on individual freedom and excellence fostered a culture of competition and achievement. Athenians competed in athletics, the arts, and public speaking, striving to excel in their chosen fields. This spirit of competition spurred innovation and pushed individuals to achieve their full potential.

Pericles also recognized the importance of education in fostering individual excellence. Athens provided opportunities for its citizens to receive a well-rounded education, including training in rhetoric, philosophy, and the arts. This education equipped citizens with the skills and knowledge necessary to participate effectively in public life and to contribute to the intellectual and cultural life of the city.

A City of Culture and Intellect

Beyond its political institutions, Athens was renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and its dedication to intellectual pursuits. Pericles believed that Athens's cultural achievements were not merely a byproduct of its wealth and power but rather an essential component of its greatness.

Athens was a center of artistic innovation, producing some of the most enduring works of art and architecture in Western history. The Parthenon, the iconic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, stands as a testament to the artistic genius of Athenian sculptors and architects. The plays of Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus explored profound themes of human existence, captivating audiences and shaping the course of Western drama.

Pericles recognized the importance of investing in the arts and culture. He commissioned the construction of magnificent public buildings and supported the work of artists and intellectuals. He believed that these investments would not only beautify the city but also inspire its citizens and enhance their sense of civic pride.

Athens was also a hub of intellectual activity, attracting philosophers, scientists, and thinkers from all over the Greek world. The teachings of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the foundation for Western philosophy and continue to influence our understanding of ethics, politics, and metaphysics.

Pericles believed that the pursuit of knowledge and understanding was essential for a well-functioning society. He encouraged citizens to engage in intellectual debate and to question conventional wisdom. This spirit of inquiry fostered innovation and critical thinking, contributing to Athens's intellectual vibrancy.

The Athenian commitment to culture and intellect was not limited to the elite. Public festivals, theatrical performances, and philosophical discussions were open to all citizens, providing opportunities for intellectual and cultural enrichment. This widespread access to culture and knowledge helped to create a society of informed and engaged citizens.

Military Strength and Civic Duty

While Pericles emphasized the importance of democracy, freedom, and culture, he also recognized the need for military strength to defend Athens's interests and preserve its way of life. He believed that a strong military was essential for maintaining Athens's independence and protecting its citizens from external threats.

However, Pericles was careful to distinguish Athenian military prowess from the militaristic culture of Sparta. He argued that Athenian soldiers were motivated not by blind obedience but by a sense of civic duty and a love of their city.

"We are lovers of the beautiful, yet simple in our tastes, and we cultivate the mind without loss of manliness," Pericles proclaimed. This statement encapsulates the Athenian ideal of a citizen-soldier: a person who is both skilled in the art of war and committed to the values of democracy, freedom, and culture.

Athenian military strength was based on its navy, which controlled the seas and allowed Athens to project its power throughout the Aegean region. Athenian sailors were renowned for their skill and courage, and the Athenian fleet was a formidable force that deterred potential aggressors.

Pericles recognized the importance of military preparedness. He invested in the construction of warships and fortifications and ensured that Athenian soldiers were well-trained and equipped. However, he also emphasized the importance of diplomacy and negotiation, seeking to resolve conflicts peacefully whenever possible.

The Athenian emphasis on civic duty extended to military service. Citizens were expected to serve in the military when called upon, and they took pride in defending their city and its values. This sense of collective responsibility strengthened the Athenian military and made it a formidable force to be reckoned with.

A Lasting Legacy: Lessons for Today

Pericles's vision of Athenian greatness continues to resonate today, offering valuable lessons for societies seeking to build a more just, prosperous, and fulfilling future. His emphasis on democracy, individual freedom, intellectual and artistic pursuits, and civic responsibility provides a timeless framework for understanding the ingredients of a thriving and exceptional society.

While Athens's democratic system was far from perfect – excluding women, slaves, and foreigners from political participation – it represented a significant step forward in the development of democratic governance. Pericles's articulation of the principles of isonomia and isegoria continues to inspire movements for political equality and democratic reform around the world.

His emphasis on individual freedom and the pursuit of personal excellence reminds us of the importance of creating societies that value individual autonomy and provide opportunities for personal growth. By fostering a culture of tolerance, innovation, and critical thinking, we can unlock the potential of our citizens and build a more dynamic and prosperous society.

Pericles's belief in the importance of investing in the arts and culture serves as a reminder of the power of culture to inspire, educate, and unite us. By supporting the arts and promoting cultural exchange, we can enrich our lives and strengthen our communities.

Finally, Pericles's emphasis on civic responsibility reminds us that a thriving society requires the active participation of its citizens. By engaging in public life, contributing to the common good, and holding our leaders accountable, we can ensure that our societies remain true to their founding principles.

In conclusion, according to Pericles, what made Athens great was its unique combination of democratic governance, individual freedom, intellectual and artistic achievements, and a strong sense of civic duty. These elements, intertwined and mutually reinforcing, created a society that fostered innovation, creativity, and excellence. While Athens's Golden Age eventually came to an end, its legacy continues to inspire us to strive for a better future, one in which democracy, freedom, culture, and civic responsibility flourish. How can we, in our own societies, strive to emulate the virtues that Pericles so eloquently championed?