Political Speech In Ancient Greece And Civic Education In Athens

There is a view in ancient Greece that public speaking doesn’t serve the purpose of spreading true information,let alone educating the public.In the eyes of some historians and philosophers,speech is often associated with ignominious words such as "deceit","flattery" and "fascination".In this context,Isocrates appeals to the public to recognize the value of speech.He worries that he is being hurt by the trend against the intellectual,and thinks that education can be achieved without philosophical debate and through public speaking.This thesis takes the speech of Isocrates as the main content,which can be divided into three parts.The first chapter,focusing on the historical background of the rise of rhetoric,gives an overview of the educational cause of Isocrates,and examines the position and influence of Isocrates in ancient Greek rhetoric and education.The second chapter focuses on the conflict between Isocrates and the traditional Sophists and Plato.On the basic idea of rhetoric,Isocrates follows the sophists concern for discourse,but he emphasizes the constructive role of discourse and combines oratory with moral construction.On the other hand,Isocrates and Plato have similar interpretations on the definition of rhetoric,but they have totally different views on the value of rhetoric.On this basis,Isocrates tries to establish a standard of rhetorical education,that is,the principle of consistency,an ideal standard.The third chapter discusses the profound insights and reflections on the education of elite and mass and the operation of Athens.Isocrates explains specific and detailed education plans to the elite,and also doesn’t forget to provide positive and effective suggestions to the general public.In addition,Isocrates does not lose the hope of democracy.He reflects on the institution of Athens from many angles,to find a panacea to save the state.Isocrates places his rhetorical education in the slogan of "restoring the constitution of the ancestors",which not only lets it easier for Athenians to understand,but also provides political rationality for rhetoric and its value.