Unit 10

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst *

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100

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History

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Feb 20, 2024

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docx

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Review pgs. 237-238 of your Martin text and read the attached PDF to craft a three paragraph response to this question: In the mid-4th century BCE, Isocrates, one of the most influential of the Athenian rhetoricians (men who taught the skill of speaking and writing in a way that influences people), made several appeals to King Philip II of Macedon. In this essay, I want you to respond to the following questions (organized by paragraph): Paragraph #1: Why would Isocrates, a citizen of democratic Athens, appeal to a distant monarch (Philip II) to "save" Greece? Paragraph #2: What steps did Isocrates suggest that Philip take in order to unite the Greeks? Paragraph #3: Once united, what venture would this alliance of Greeks (led by Philip) embark upon? What factors "guaranteed" success? What benefits would this bring to Greece? Isocrates appealed to King Philip II of Macedon to "save" Greece for various reasons. One of the most important reasons was the unstable political situation of the Greek city-states and their inability to unite for a common cause. He felt that a capable ruler like Philip could help establish a centralized leadership and desired unity that Greece desperately needed (32). Additionally, Isocrates identified the Persian Empire to be a common enemy of Greece and King Philip II. He knew Philip had the military prowess and resources needed to defend Greece against this external threat (17). Thus, by appealing to Philip, Isocrates was able to find a leader who would unite the Greeks and an ally who could help protect Greece and ensure their survival. In his address, Isocrates advised Philip to reconcile the poleis of Argos, Sparta, Thebes, and Athens. Once they had united, it would not be hard to unite the remaining city-states. In this way, Isocrates believed Philip would be able to overcome the division in Greece (32). He urged Philip to convince the cities that their duty was to go to war with the Persians. However, Isocrates also warned him not to go against the Persians until the Greeks do one of two things: support going against the Persians or give their approval for the same (91). This way, Philip would be able to unite the Greeks with a common goal. Once united, the Greeks led by Philip would embark on an expedition against the Persian Empire. Isocrates claimed that the Persians were at their most vulnerable and provided reasons like weakened control and the impetuosity of Cyrus (91). He believed that by going on this expedition, Philip would not only defeat the Persians but also help provide a home for Greek mercenaries who were causing unrest (121). Isocrates believed this would help address internal Greek issues and create a sense of security. Isocrates also argued that it was a disgrace to see Asia flourishing more than Europe and the Persians being more prosperous than the Greeks. He believed that these conditions needed to be reversed (133). In conclusion, Isocrates' appeal to Philip was motivated by his desire to unite the Greeks and secure a brighter future for them with the help of Philip.
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