Pericles 'Oration Over Athenian War Dead'

In the “Oration Over Athenian War Dead by Perikles” transcribed by Thucydides, Pericles gives an open speech to the relatives of the dead, and people of Athen. During this funeral oration Pericles celebrates not only the lives lost, but the aspects of Athenian society which these men died for. Three significant notions he mentioned were their Democratic approach to government, warfare, and the way they practice economy; some of these exact attitudes can be seen in the United States today. Pericles makes reference to all the wonderful things about the Athenian society. Starting off with his mention to having “a form of government that does not emulate the practices of our neighbors... its name is Democracy”(92). He explains this is a good thing because they set an example for neighbors instead of using intimidation to express themselves. They as a community …show more content…
This plays into acts of equality, and the idea that you are not great as an individual but, as a unit together economic success is maintained. The only reason you would shunned for your economic downfall is if you do not actively try to better yourself and the society. The U.S. is only loosely similar in this regard, we do indeed flaunt our money but the reference to poverty is still relevant. As long as the individual is not taking from the state what he could make on his own then he will not be shunned by society. Pericles saw the Athenian society as a great notion that was self sufficient, honorable and more in control than its neighbors. During his speech he commended them for their democratic approach to government, warfare, and the way they practice economy. The equalities pericles deemed exceptional are ones that The U.S. now hold in our current