Demosthenes

Demosthenes (384–322 BCE) was an Athenian statesman and orator who urged Greek resistance to Macedonian power, especially in speeches called the Philippics.

Philip II of Macedon: Philip II ruled Macedon from 359 to 336 BCE and transformed it into the dominant power in Greece. Demosthenes made Philip’s growing power the central target of his political warnings.
Philippics: The Philippics are Demosthenes’ speeches urging Athens to oppose Philip II of Macedon. These speeches most directly express his case for resisting Philip.
On the Crown: On the Crown is Demosthenes’ 330 BCE defense of his public service against accusations by Aeschines. The speech presents his account of policy and resistance after Athens’ defeat at Chaeronea.
Attic orators: The Attic orators were a group of ancient Greek speechwriters and public speakers associated with classical Athens. Demosthenes became their most influential model of political and forensic eloquence.
Aeschines: Aeschines was an Athenian orator and politician who opposed Demosthenes in major public and legal disputes. Their rivalry turned disagreements over Macedon into celebrated courtroom contests.
Olynthiacs: The Olynthiacs are three speeches by Demosthenes urging Athens to aid Olynthus against Philip II. They show him pressing Athenians to provide concrete military support to an endangered ally.
On the False Embassy: On the False Embassy is Demosthenes’ prosecution of Aeschines over a diplomatic mission to Philip II. The trial captures their dispute over whether Athenian diplomacy had served the city.
Greek rhetoric: Greek rhetoric is the art and study of persuasive speaking and writing developed in ancient Greece. His speeches became enduring examples for rhetorical study and imitation.
Alexander the Great: Alexander the Great ruled Macedon from 336 to 323 BCE and conquered the Persian Empire. Demosthenes continued opposing Macedonian domination after Alexander succeeded Philip.
Delian League: The Delian League was an alliance led by Athens, originally formed to oppose the Persian Empire. Demosthenes sought a new coalition against Macedon, unlike this earlier Athenian-led alliance.

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