Difference Between Virtue In Works And Days By Hesiod

Hesiod defines the Greek way of virtue in the statement, “Honoring justice is what distinguishes a civilized society from a state of savagery” (Works and Days Introduction, Hesiod). This statement makes sense because virtue is a way of justice, or moral excellence. Virtue is looked at in a positive way and to be “morally good” is the highest value of virtue. Virtue was important to ancient Greeks because it really described your character as a whole. The type of person you are has to deal with if you have good morals and values in life. In the short stint of Works and Days by Hesiod, there is a line that writes, “Cheated by his brother, Perses, out of part of their father’s estate, Hesiod feels compelled to instruct Perses and others about the virtues of justice. …show more content…
Hesiod believed that human beings could improve their lot if they embraced justice, which is the best thing they have”. I see this statement as even though Hesiod was cheated by his brother, he would rather preach the ways of virtue than turn it into a fight. A fight or slaughter would be lowering one’s moral standards in not being the bigger person. In our world today we base our opinion on others due to their moral values (virtue). If someone is belittling another, that is seen as having little to no self-esteem or self-value. Hesiod’s view of virtue is how it should be. Virtue is a positive aspect of life that has changed over time but still holds true to this day. There is nothing wrong with having good moral standards and values of justice. The world needs more people like