The Olynthiacs of Demosthenes: With Notes

by Demosthenes, William Seymour Tyler

Originally published in 1915 as part of the Pitt Press Series, this book contains the Greek text of Demosthenes' orations urging aid to the Olynthians during the siege of Olynthus by Philip II of Macedon in 349 BC. The speeches are prefaced with an overview of Demosthenes' life and political career and an analysis of each speech, with detailed notes following at the end. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in Demosthenes and the rise of the kingdom of Macedon.

100 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1915

About the author

Demosthenes was a prominent Greek statesman and orator of ancient Athens. His orations constitute a significant expression of contemporary Athenian intellectual prowess and provide an insight into the politics and culture of ancient Greece during the 4th century BC. Demosthenes learned rhetoric by studying the speeches of previous great orators. He delivered his first judicial speeches at the age of 20, in which he argued effectively to gain from his guardians what was left of his inheritance. For a time, Demosthenes made his living as a professional speech-writer (logographer) and a lawyer, writing speeches for use in private legal suits.