| Summary |
The purpose of this thesis is to explore the content of Panhellenism for the Greek thinker Isocrates, and the way in which the social, political, and economic situation in the Greek world of the fourth century affected this content. As the meaning of Panhellenism for Isocrates is explicated, other concerns will be seen to predominante in his overall program. These concerns are examined, in turn, and their motivations and consequences considered in some depth. Isocrates did not invent "Panhellenism," and accordingly thinkers before Isocrates who used this term are examined. Two main types of Panhellenism are discerned. In particular, the writings of Aristopanes, Thucydides, and Euripides suggest a Panhellenism which asked the poleis to sacrifice for the common good. On the other hand, figures such as Pericles and Lysias suggest that a common practice existed which used Panhellenism to advance purely Athenian interests. Isocrates' first and greatest work on Panhellenism is the Panegyricus. This work shows that Isocrates wished Athens to lead a great Greek campaign against the Persians. This campaign would net great wealth for the Greeks who would use these riches to ease troublesome domestic problems in the Greek world of that period. This interpretation is supported by discovering the somewhat hidden meaning of Isocrates' Encomium of Helen which mirrors the interests of the Panegyricus. An examination of other works such as On the Peace and the Philippus shows how Isocrates' grand scheme was variously presented as conditions in the Greek world changed. The weight of the evidence thus seems to indicate that Isocrates was primarily concerned with certain social, political, and economic problems. His Panhellenism was urged only insofar as it furthered his solution to these problems. Isocrates did not add any additional meaning to the concept of Panhellenism. A careful look at a work by Isocrates on Athenian domestic difficulties, the Areopagiticus, gives further credence to the views given above. |
| Summary |
The Areopagiticus reflects Isocrates' concern with the landless poor, and the fear he has for the security of the property of well-to-do citizens. His proposals are offered in order to solve this problem. A discussion of the Areopagiticus presents an opportunity for noticing the numerous instances of contradictory statements made by Isocrates in his works. In particular, two conflicting opinions from the Areopagiticus and the Panegyricus provide an example for resolving this difficulty. Another problem that arises in Isocrates' works is the degree to which they influenced contemporary Greeks. When, however, one considers the practicality of his proposals and the actual course of events in Greek history, those who see an important and insightful role for Isocrates and his counsels are probably incorrect. But in one area, Isocrates' advice to Philip to treat Athens kindly, there is evidence of the possibility of a shaping role for Isocrates in a major policy decision. To help evaluate the Isocratic program, Isocrates is compared and contrasted with two famous contemporaries, Demosthenes and Plato. While Demosthenes' proposals were perhaps more practical, it can be seen that he also used Panhellenic arguments to advance Athenian interests. The comparison with Plato demonstrates the inadequacy of Isocrates' counsels. Undeniably, however, Isocrates is held in high esteem by many writers. The reason for the prevalence of this seemingly erroneous judgement are suggested. An awareness of the problems which fourth-century Greece faced makes Isocrates use of Panhellenic-sounding arguments for advancing his cause of political, social, and economic concerns more understandable. None the less, even when such factors are taken into account, Isocrates' proposed solutions to those problems which concerned him seem to be both imprudent and ill-advised. |
| General note | Presented to the Faculty of the Department of History. |
| General note | Advisor: Anthony J. Papalas |
| Dissertation note | M.A. East Carolina University |
| Bibliography note | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 111-114). |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Thèses et écrits académiques. |
